Bay of Many
General Information about #173D81
The hexadecimal color code #173D81, often referred to as "Bay of Many," is a dark, subdued shade of blue. It is composed of 9.02% red, 23.92% green, and 50.59% blue. In the RGB color model, #173D81 has the numerical representation (23, 61, 129). When represented in the CMYK color model, it consists of 82.17% cyan, 52.71% magenta, 0% yellow, and 49.41% black. This color's deep and calming nature makes it suitable for various applications, including website design, graphic design, and branding. It exudes a sense of sophistication and reliability. The color is generally perceived as cool and can be used to create a sense of depth and stability in visual designs. Its relative darkness means it is most effective with lighter text and design elements.
The hex color #173D81, also known as Bay of Many, presents certain accessibility considerations, especially in web design. Its darkness implies that it requires light-colored text for sufficient contrast. Using dark text on this background would likely fail accessibility standards, making content difficult to read 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. Before implementing #173D81, evaluate contrast ratios with different foreground colors using online tools to ensure compliance. Consider that color perception varies among individuals; therefore, relying solely on color to convey information is not advised. Always supplement color cues with text or other visual indicators to accommodate users with color blindness. Thorough accessibility testing should be part of your design workflow when using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Background
This color can serve as a background for websites or applications needing a professional and calming aesthetic. Its depth evokes trust and reliability, making it suitable for corporate sites, financial platforms, or educational portals. Consider pairing it with lighter accent colors to create visual interest and maintain readability. For instance, using white or a pale yellow for text and interactive elements can ensure optimal contrast and user experience. Also, this color is effective for creating a sense of depth in charts and graphs, helping to distinguish data sets clearly. It's particularly well-suited for visualizing trends and presenting complex information in an easily digestible manner.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, #173D81 can be used as a base color for elegant evening wear or sophisticated outerwear. Its rich tone complements both warm and cool skin tones, making it a versatile choice for designers. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver for a luxurious feel, or with brighter colors like coral or teal for a more playful and modern look. Consider using this color in accessories such as handbags or scarves to add a touch of refinement to any outfit. Its versatility allows it to be incorporated into both classic and contemporary styles.
Corporate Branding
This color is a great choice for branding elements such as logos and corporate colors. It evokes trust, authority, and stability, making it ideal for companies in industries such as finance, law, or technology. Using this color in your branding helps to create a professional and dependable image, while ensuring the brand is easily recognizable. It is effective for conveying a sense of security and expertise, enhancing the overall perception of competence and reliability. For instance, pairing it with a clean and modern font in marketing materials can reinforce a strong, trustworthy brand identity.