Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
Chathams Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #18517F, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. It belongs to the blue color family and carries a subtle hint of grayness, giving it a somewhat understated and refined appearance. In the RGB color model, #18517F is composed of 9.41% red, 31.76% green, and 49.8% blue. This composition results in a color that is significantly biased towards the blue end of the spectrum, with the relatively low red value contributing to its coolness. The CMYK values are 0.81, 0.36, 0.00, 0.50, indicating a high proportion of cyan and a moderate amount of magenta, with minimal yellow. This color is often associated with trustworthiness and can be used in various design applications to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism.
The hex color #18517F, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility considerations, particularly for text and interactive elements. Its relatively low lightness value indicates that it is a dark color, necessitating careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability and usability. When used as a background color, it should be combined with light text (white or very pale shades) to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for color contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). For interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient contrast is crucial to help users easily identify and understand them. Designers should use color contrast checking tools to verify compliance with accessibility standards, ensuring that the visual presentation does not hinder users with visual impairments or color vision deficiencies from accessing the content effectively. Additionally, it's good practice to provide alternative visual cues, such as underlines for links, to complement color distinctions and further enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #336699
A slightly lighter blue, #336699 provides a similar aesthetic while potentially offering improved contrast against darker backgrounds.
- #2962ff
For a more vibrant alternative, #2962FF offers a brighter shade of blue that can draw more attention and improve visibility.
- #5f9ea0
A greyish-blue that provides a more neutral and subtle alternative.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Chathams Blue (#18517F) can be effectively used for website headers and navigation bars. Its depth evokes a sense of trust and stability, which is beneficial for creating a positive user experience. Pairing it with a light-colored font (e.g., white or a pale yellow) ensures readability and accessibility. The color can also be used for call-to-action buttons to make them stand out against a lighter background, guiding users through the intended flow of the website. Furthermore, #18517F works well in data visualizations, providing a calm and professional look when representing complex information. It is crucial to maintain visual harmony across the website by using complementary colors and appropriate spacing.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue (#18517F) can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It's particularly suitable for bedrooms and studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. The color can be applied to walls, accent furniture, or decorative elements such as cushions and curtains. When used as a wall color, it pairs well with light-colored trim and furniture to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Accents of metallic colors, such as gold or silver, can add a touch of luxury. In terms of textiles, consider using natural materials like linen or cotton to enhance the overall comfort and visual appeal of the space.
Fashion Industry
In the fashion industry, Chathams Blue (#18517F) presents itself as a versatile choice, especially in creating pieces that exude professionalism and elegance. The color finds ideal use in formal wear such as business suits and evening gowns, where it conveys a sense of sophistication and trustworthiness. When paired with neutral tones like beige or grey, it ensures a balanced and understated look. For accessories, consider combining it with metallic accents like gold or silver to add a touch of glamour. The color can also be utilized in casual wear, where it can serve as a base for nautical-themed designs. To maintain a cohesive look, incorporate complementary colors such as coral or white.