Catalina Blue
General Information about Catalina Blue
The hexadecimal color #162A74, also known as Catalina Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It is composed of 8.63% red, 16.47% green, and 45.49% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined as (22, 42, 116). This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and depth. In color psychology, dark blues are often linked to trust, intelligence, and authority. Catalina Blue can be used to evoke a sense of professionalism and seriousness. Its CMYK representation is C:81, M:64, Y:0, K:55, meaning it is created with a high percentage of cyan and magenta, and a significant amount of black. This combination results in its deep and rich tone, making it suitable for various design applications where a sense of sophistication is desired.
The color #162A74, also known as Catalina Blue, presents some accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When using this color for text, it is crucial to pair it with a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using a color like white or a very pale yellow would be advisable. For interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient contrast is even more critical, as users need to easily identify these elements. Consider adding visual cues beyond color, such as underlines for links or borders for buttons, to enhance usability for users with visual impairments. Always test your color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #294699
A slightly lighter blue that offers improved contrast and visibility, making it a safer choice for text and interactive elements.
- #f0f0f0
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to provide a softer contrast with darker text, improving readability.
- #191970
This dark navy is very close to Catalina Blue but can be used to create harmonious color palettes.
Applications
Financial Website Design
Catalina Blue is a sophisticated and deep color, making it suitable for financial websites or applications where trust and stability are key. It can be used in charts, graphs, and data visualizations to represent important information clearly. Its dark hue makes it most effective when used sparingly, such as for headings, borders, or accents, paired with lighter backgrounds to ensure readability and contrast. The color evokes a sense of professionalism and reliability, which are crucial in the finance sector.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Catalina Blue can be a striking choice for evening wear or formal attire. Its deep, rich tone exudes elegance and can be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver for a luxurious effect. It works well for dresses, suits, and accessories, offering a sophisticated alternative to black. When used in fabrics like velvet or silk, it enhances the depth and richness of the color, creating a visually stunning and memorable look. It's a color that commands attention and conveys confidence.
Interior Design
For interior design, Catalina Blue can create a dramatic and calming atmosphere. It can be used as an accent wall color in a bedroom or living room to add depth and sophistication. Pairing it with lighter neutrals like beige, gray, or white can balance the darkness and create a harmonious space. It also works well in furniture upholstery, such as sofas or armchairs, adding a touch of elegance to the room. Consider using it in combination with natural materials like wood and stone to create a warm and inviting environment. The color helps create a relaxing sanctuary.