Bay of Many
General Information about #173F81
The hex color #173F81, often referred to as "Bay of Many," is a deep, muted blue with strong undertones of gray. It belongs to the blue color family and conveys a sense of calmness, stability, and professionalism. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 24.71% green, and 50.59% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 82.24% cyan, 51.15% magenta, 0% yellow, and 49.41% black. Its hex code #173F81 is a shorthand representation of these values. This color is suitable for designs that seek to convey trustworthiness and sophistication. It evokes associations with the ocean and depth, making it a good choice for branding in industries such as finance, technology, and education.
The hex color #173F81, also known as Bay of Many, presents some accessibility considerations, particularly in text and user interface design. Due to its relatively dark hue, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when using it as a background or foreground color. A light text color, such as white or a very pale yellow, would be necessary to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. Failing to provide adequate contrast can make content difficult or impossible to read for users with visual impairments. When using #173F81 for interactive elements like buttons or links, it's also important to consider providing clear visual cues for focus states. This could involve adding a border, changing the background color slightly on hover, or using an underline for links. These measures will greatly improve the usability of your website for all users, including those with disabilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5cb3
A slightly lighter shade offers improved readability against white backgrounds while retaining the sophisticated feel.
- #0a2559
A darker variant provides a stronger, more authoritative appearance, suitable for backgrounds and elements needing visual prominence.
- #274a6f
A less saturated variant provides a more muted feel, while retaining some of the original elegance.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #173F81 can be effectively used for navigation bars, headers, and footers to create a sense of sophistication and professionalism. Its depth lends itself well to creating a visually appealing hierarchy, guiding users through the site with ease. To enhance the user experience, consider pairing it with lighter accent colors for buttons and calls to action. This creates a clear visual distinction and makes the interactive elements stand out. This color is also a good match for companies in fields like tech, consulting or education.
Interior Design
Within interior design, #173F81 works beautifully as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, adding a touch of drama and elegance to the space. It also can be used for furniture pieces such as sofas or armchairs, grounding the room with a sense of solidity and sophistication. Pair it with lighter neutrals like beige or gray to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Metallic accents in gold or silver can further enhance the luxurious feel. The color is a great option for people who love the nautical style.
Fashion
In fashion, #173F81 can be a sophisticated choice for evening wear or formal attire, exuding confidence and style. It is also a popular color for outerwear. Consider using it for dresses, suits, or statement pieces like coats or jackets. Accessorize with metallic accents or contrasting colors like gold or red to create a bold and memorable look. This color also works well in casual settings, such as sweaters or button-down shirts.