Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
The color #184680, also known as Chathams Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. It belongs to the blue color family and exhibits characteristics of both traditional and modern aesthetics. In the RGB color model, #184680 is composed of 9.41% red, 27.45% green, and 50.2% blue. Its CMYK values are 81.2%, 42.7%, 0%, and 49.8%, indicating the proportions of cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black) inks required to reproduce the color in print. This hex color is commonly used in various applications, ranging from web design to interior decoration, due to its versatile nature and ability to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. Its subdued intensity makes it a safe choice for backgrounds and elements where readability and visual comfort are important.
The hex color #184680, also known as Chathams Blue, presents specific accessibility challenges that web developers must consider. Its relatively dark hue necessitates careful pairing with lighter text colors 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. Using a color like white (#FFFFFF) for text on a #184680 background generally provides adequate contrast. However, it's crucial to verify this using contrast checking tools. Insufficient contrast can exclude users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness. Developers should also avoid relying solely on color to convey information, as colorblind users may not perceive the intended meaning. Providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, is essential for inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #184680 can be used for headers, navigation bars, and background elements where a sense of stability and trustworthiness is desired. Its deep blue hue pairs well with lighter accent colors to create a professional and visually appealing interface. For example, using #184680 as the primary color for a corporate website's header, complemented by white or light gray text, can establish a sense of authority and reliability. In UI design, it is effective for buttons and interactive elements, especially when paired with complementary hover effects to improve user experience. It's essential to maintain a high contrast ratio with text and other interactive elements for optimal accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accents to evoke a calming and sophisticated ambiance. It is particularly well-suited for bedrooms, offices, or living rooms where a sense of tranquility is desired. The color can be combined with neutral tones like gray or beige, or with brighter accent colors like yellow or orange, to create visual interest and balance. Textiles, such as curtains, cushions, and rugs, can also incorporate #184680 to tie the room's color scheme together. Lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the color's effect, with warm lighting bringing out its richness and depth.
Fashion
In fashion, #184680 can be used in apparel design for formal wear, business attire, or casual clothing to exude sophistication and elegance. It is suitable for dresses, suits, sweaters, and accessories like scarves or ties. When paired with lighter colors like white or pastel shades, it creates a balanced and stylish look. Incorporating #184680 into a wardrobe allows for versatility, as it can be dressed up for professional settings or dressed down for casual occasions. It also serves as a foundation color to make accent color really pop.