Catalina Blue
General Information
Catalina Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #123386, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 7.1% red, 20% green, and 52.5% blue. The CMYK color model registers it as 73% cyan, 62% magenta, 0% yellow, and 47% black. This color evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. It's often associated with the ocean, night skies, and corporate professionalism. Its depth and richness make it a popular choice for branding, web design, and various creative applications where a sense of reliability and sophistication is desired. The name 'Catalina Blue' suggests a connection to the serene and deep waters surrounding Catalina Island, further enhancing its evocative qualities.
The color #123386, also known as Catalina Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning text contrast. When using this color for background or foreground elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the text or other visual elements. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and its background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Given the darkness of Catalina Blue, light colors such as white, light yellow, or pale green would be more appropriate for text. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help evaluate the contrast ratio. Using this color for interactive elements requires careful consideration to ensure they remain distinguishable and usable for individuals with visual impairments. Consider providing alternative visual cues or labels.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #284b93
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast for text and other UI elements, improving overall readability and accessibility.
- #cccccc
A neutral gray that complements Catalina Blue well and can be used for backgrounds or borders to create a balanced and visually appealing design.
- #4a64a6
A brighter blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements while still maintaining a cohesive color scheme.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Catalina Blue can be effectively employed for headers, navigation bars, and other prominent UI elements. Its depth evokes a sense of trust and stability, making it suitable for websites in the finance, technology, or education sectors. However, given its darkness, it's imperative to use light text to ensure readability. Additionally, consider using it sparingly as an accent color to prevent overwhelming the user. Complementary colors such as light yellows or oranges can be used to create a vibrant and engaging design.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Catalina Blue serves as a sophisticated and calming hue. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accents to create a serene atmosphere, particularly in bedrooms or living rooms. Pairing it with neutral tones like beige or gray can further enhance its tranquility. The color's richness can also be leveraged to add a touch of luxury to a space, especially when combined with metallic accents or high-end materials. It is important to balance the deep color with lighter, brighter shades to avoid making the room feel too dark or enclosed.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Catalina Blue can be utilized in apparel and accessories to convey elegance and professionalism. It can be used for formal wear such as suits, dresses, or blazers, imparting a sense of authority and confidence. The color also lends itself well to accessories like handbags, scarves, or ties, adding a pop of color to more subdued outfits. When styling with Catalina Blue, consider pairing it with complementary colors like mustard yellow or coral to create a striking visual contrast. Additionally, incorporating metallic elements like gold or silver can elevate the overall look and feel.