Nile Blue
General Information about #183E50
The color #183E50, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark and muted shade of blue with a subtle hint of green. It evokes feelings of calmness, sophistication, and stability. This color belongs to the family of blue hues and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance values. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.41% red, 24.31% green, and 31.37% blue. In the CMYK color model, it comprises 69.92% cyan, 22.48% magenta, 0% yellow, and 68.63% black. Its hexadecimal representation is #183E50, and its closest web-safe color is arguably #336666. The color is often associated with night, water, and depth, making it suitable for designs aiming to convey tranquility and professionalism.
The color #183E50, a deep and muted blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its low luminance value of approximately 0.05 means it has low contrast against common background colors like white. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure readability, this color should be paired with lighter colors like whites (#FFFFFF), light grays (#D3D3D3), or even light yellows (#FFFFE0) for text or important interface elements. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify the contrast ratio meets accessibility standards. When used for non-text elements, a contrast ratio of 3:1 with adjacent colors is required. Furthermore, avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information; always supplement it with text or icons to cater to users with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2E86C1
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability while maintaining a professional aesthetic.
- #808080
A neutral gray that provides a subtle and accessible background color, suitable for text and other UI elements.
- #E0FFFF
A light cyan that can be used for elements that need a strong contrast to the dark blue, ensuring readability and visibility.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #183E50 can be effectively used for headers, navigation bars, or as a background color for sections requiring a sophisticated and calm feel. Due to its dark nature, it's best paired with light-colored text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it in combination with a brighter accent color to draw attention to important elements. For example, in a website promoting financial services, #183E50 can create a sense of trust and stability, further enhanced by a contrasting call-to-action button in a vibrant color.
Interior Design
In interior design, #183E50 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a relaxing and elegant ambiance. Pair it with lighter, neutral furniture and textiles to balance the darkness and avoid overwhelming the space. It can also be used in smaller doses, such as for cushions, curtains, or decorative items. This color works well in spaces with natural light, where its depth and richness can be fully appreciated. Furthermore, complement it with metallic accents, such as gold or copper, to enhance its luxurious feel.
Fashion
In fashion, #183E50 can be incorporated into elegant and sophisticated outfits. It works well for evening wear, suits, or outerwear. Combine it with lighter colors such as cream or beige for a balanced look, or pair it with bolder colors like mustard yellow or burgundy for a more daring statement. Accessories in metallic tones such as silver or gold can further enhance the sophistication of the outfit. This color is suitable for creating a professional and stylish appearance, and it can be adapted to various styles and occasions.