Biscay
General Information about Biscay (#172861)
Biscay, represented by the hexadecimal color code #172861, is a deep, muted shade of blue. It is a color often associated with the ocean depths or the night sky, evoking feelings of calmness, depth, and introspection. In color psychology, dark blues like Biscay are frequently linked to trust, stability, and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional environments. This color is not particularly vibrant, possessing a low saturation and a relatively dark luminance value. As a result, it's often used to create a sense of seriousness and understated elegance. The name 'Biscay' likely refers to the Bay of Biscay, a region known for its deep blue waters and often stormy seas, further reinforcing the color's association with the ocean and its vastness.
The color #172861, also known as Biscay, presents some accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Using a color contrast checker is essential to verify that the chosen text color provides adequate contrast. Avoid pairing #172861 with mid-tone or dark colors, as this will result in poor readability and a negative user experience. When used for interactive elements such as buttons or links, consider providing clear visual cues like hover effects to enhance usability for users with visual impairments. Ensure the text size is large enough to compensate for the low contrast if perfect contrast cannot be achieved.
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Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Biscay (#172861) can be used as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers. It conveys a sense of professionalism and depth, especially when paired with clean, minimalist design elements. The color is suitable for sites that want to invoke trust and reliability, such as financial institutions or corporate portals. It should be used sparingly and balanced with lighter hues to prevent the interface from feeling too heavy or overwhelming. White or light gray text works best on this background to provide sufficient contrast and legibility.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Biscay can be used as an accent color to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. Consider using it on accent walls or for upholstery on furniture pieces. Pairing it with lighter, neutral colors like cream or beige can prevent the space from feeling too dark. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can enhance the color's richness and add a touch of elegance. Overall, it helps achieve a modern and sophisticated aesthetic.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Biscay can be used for elegant evening wear or professional attire. It is a versatile color that can be paired with a variety of other colors, such as gold, silver, or even brighter shades like teal or coral, to create different looks. The color can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and handbags. It evokes a sense of sophistication and confidence, making it a good choice for formal events or business settings. When used in fashion, it should be complemented with appropriate fabrics and textures to enhance its overall impact.