Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
The hexadecimal color #163A4C, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, subdued shade of blue with moderate saturation. It is composed of 8.63% red, 22.75% green, and 29.8% blue. In the RGB color space, it has a value of R:22, G:58, B:76. In the CMYK color space, it consists of 71% cyan, 24% magenta, 0% yellow, and 70% black. Nile Blue derives its name from the Nile River, although the actual color of the Nile can vary significantly depending on the season and location. The color is often associated with tranquility, depth, and sophistication. Its muted nature makes it suitable for creating a calming and professional aesthetic. It is a popular choice for backgrounds and accent colors in both web and graphic design.
The color #163A4C, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, sufficient contrast with text or foreground elements is crucial for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. It's imperative to test color combinations using accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Using lighter shades of text (e.g., whites or very light yellows) can help improve contrast. Furthermore, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or underlines, to convey information, rather than relying solely on color. Semantic HTML and ARIA attributes can also enhance accessibility for screen reader users, ensuring content is understandable regardless of color perception. Proper attention to color contrast ensures that web content is inclusive and usable by a broader audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #346886
A lighter shade that provides better contrast on white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility.
- #285068
A slightly desaturated variant that can be used for secondary elements or backgrounds to provide a softer aesthetic.
- #4682B4
A brighter shade of blue that will contrast more againist darker colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Nile Blue can serve as an elegant background for headers or sidebars. Its calming nature makes it suitable for websites focusing on topics such as mindfulness, health, or finance. Use it sparingly in combination with lighter, contrasting text to ensure readability. The color can also be incorporated into website branding to convey sophistication and trustworthiness. Furthermore, consider using it for interactive elements such as buttons or links, providing clear visual cues through hover effects or other UI enhancements. Nile Blue can also be a good color for data visualization, allowing for a clear and professional look.
Interior Design
In interior design, Nile Blue can create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. It's well-suited for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices where a calming environment is desired. Use it as an accent wall color or for soft furnishings such as curtains, cushions, or rugs. Pair it with neutral colors like cream, beige, or light gray to create a balanced and harmonious space. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can also complement the color, adding a touch of luxury. The color also works well in bathrooms, evoking a sense of cleanliness and tranquility.
Branding
Nile Blue evokes a sense of calm and sophistication, making it ideal for brand identities aiming to convey trustworthiness and reliability. Its understated elegance positions it effectively for professional services, financial institutions, or technology firms. Use it consistently across logos, websites, and marketing materials to reinforce brand recognition. The color can be paired with clean, modern typography to project a forward-thinking image. This hue is also applicable to educational institutions desiring to project an image of stability and trust.