Big Stone
General Information
The hex color #172540, also known as Big Stone, is a dark, muted shade of blue. It belongs to the family of cool colors and evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 14.51% green, and 25.1% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 64.06% cyan, 42.15% magenta, 0% yellow, and 74.9% black. This makes it a color often associated with professionalism and trustworthiness. The color is not particularly vibrant and leans towards the more understated side of the spectrum. Big Stone is often used in designs aiming for a serious, elegant, or calming effect. It is important to use a color palette that balances this dark color with brighter alternatives for accessibility.
The hex color #172540, also known as Big Stone, presents accessibility considerations primarily due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires light-colored text (white or very light shades of gray, yellow, or green) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Conversely, if used for text, a very light background is essential. Careful attention should be given to users with visual impairments, who benefit significantly from high contrast. Using color alone to convey information should be avoided; supplement with text or icons to ensure inclusivity for color-blind users. Tools are readily available to calculate contrast ratios and assess accessibility compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue-gray that provides better contrast in some situations.
A dark charcoal gray that offers a more neutral alternative while maintaining a similar depth.
A dark navy blue that provides a similar feel and might be easier to work with for certain color palettes.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
In web design, #172540 can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or footers, especially for sites aiming for a professional or corporate look. When paired with contrasting typography, such as white or light yellow, it creates an elegant aesthetic. This color is also suitable for interactive elements, like buttons or navigation bars, where a subtle color change on hover can provide user feedback. Its depth suggests reliability and stability, making it ideal for sites in finance, technology, or consulting.
High-End Fashion
Within the fashion industry, #172540 is a popular choice for evening wear, particularly for dresses, suits, or accessories like handbags and shoes. Its deep tone embodies elegance and mystery, making it appropriate for formal events. This hue works well with metallic accents such as silver or gold, adding a touch of glamour. It is also used in menswear, specifically for tailored suits or winter coats, projecting a sense of refined style.
Modern Interior Design
In interior design, #172540 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and serene ambiance. Paired with lighter neutral shades for the other walls and furniture, it brings depth and visual interest to the space. It's also a great choice for upholstery on sofas or accent chairs, adding a touch of sophistication. Use it in home offices to provide a grounding and focused atmosphere. Accessorize with light colored or metallic artwork.