Tory Blue
General Information
The color #174BB3, also known as Tory Blue, is a dark shade of blue that conveys feelings of stability, trust, and authority. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 29.41% green, and 70.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is often used in printing, it consists of 87% cyan, 58% magenta, 0% yellow, and 30% black. The color has a wavelength of approximately 474 nm. Tory Blue is often used in branding and design where reliability and professionalism are desired. It's a popular choice for corporate logos, websites, and marketing materials, and is generally seen as a calming and collected color.
The hex color #174BB3, also known as Tory Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its moderate contrast against lighter backgrounds. When used for text, it's crucial to ensure a sufficient contrast ratio (at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text) to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) requirements. Using online contrast checkers is advisable to verify compliance. Pairing this color with lighter shades of yellow, white, or even very light blues can improve readability. Avoid using it with darker colors, as this will significantly reduce contrast. When used for interactive elements such as buttons, it is necessary to provide clear visual cues like hover or focus states to aid users with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities in understanding interactive elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #6495ed
A lighter and softer blue that offers better contrast against darker backgrounds, providing better readability.
- #1e90ff
A more saturated blue which can provide a vibrant look with better visibility, suitable for headlines and important UI elements.
- #333333
A dark neutral color that can be paired with #174BB3 to improve accessibility.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Tory Blue (#174BB3) can be utilized as a primary color for websites related to technology, finance, or corporate sectors. Its dependable, stable and trustworthy nature makes it a great option for brands that need to inspire trust and innovation. It can be effectively used for headings, buttons, and other interactive elements. Combining it with lighter accents helps ensure a good visual balance and readability, enhancing the overall user experience and guiding visitors through important information.
Interior Design
In interior design, Tory Blue works well as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or office spaces. It can be used on walls (as an accent), furniture, or decorative items to add a touch of sophistication and depth. Paired with neutral tones like white, grey, or beige, it creates a balanced and calming environment. To create a warmer aesthetic, consider pairing it with natural materials like wood and soft textures, thus enriching the space.
Fashion
In fashion, Tory Blue makes for a smart and elegant choice, particularly in formal wear and business attire. It can be used for suits, dresses, or accessories to give a dash of polish to any outfit. When paired with neutral colors like black, white, or grey, it can create a classic and professional appearance. To add a modern twist, consider mixing it with complementary or analogous colors, generating unique and eye-catching outfits.