Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
The hex color #185180, also known as Chathams Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility, stability, and professionalism. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with trust, intelligence, and efficiency. In color psychology, blue is known to have a calming effect, making it a popular choice for environments where focus and relaxation are desired. The RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values for #185180 are R:24, G:81, B:128, indicating a higher proportion of blue compared to red and green. The CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) values are C:81, M:37, Y:0, K:50. The color is often used in corporate branding, web design, and interior decor to convey a sense of reliability and sophistication. It is suitable for creating a calm, formal atmosphere.
The color #185180, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its relatively low luminance (brightness) results in a weak contrast against white backgrounds, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When pairing #185180 with a lighter color, such as a light gray or off-white, it's crucial to verify the contrast ratio. Using online contrast checkers is advisable to ensure compliance. Consider adding a darker outline to text or interactive elements to enhance visibility. Always provide alternative ways to convey information, such as icons or descriptive labels, in addition to color. Also avoid using it in combination with other dark colors. Proper implementation is key to ensure a good user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e6da4
A lighter shade that maintains a similar blue hue while improving contrast against white backgrounds.
- #345e82
A slightly desaturated version that can be easier on the eyes when used extensively in a design.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant blue that offers better visibility and accessibility due to its higher luminance value.
Applications
Web Design
Chathams Blue is a versatile color suitable for creating a calm and professional ambiance on websites. It can be effectively used for website headers, navigation menus, and background accents to establish a sense of trust and reliability. In user interface design, #185180 can be applied to buttons, progress bars, and other interactive elements, providing a consistent and visually appealing experience. Using it in combination with white or lighter shades creates a clean and modern look. Consider using it in combination with typography to increase readability and user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #185180 can be used to create a sophisticated and tranquil atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices, where a sense of relaxation and focus is desired. The color can be incorporated through wall paint, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories such as cushions and artwork. Pairing it with neutral tones like gray or beige enhances its elegance, while adding metallic accents such as gold or silver introduces a touch of luxury. Plants and natural materials complement this color and enhances user experience.
Fashion
Chathams Blue can be used in fashion to add a subtle yet stylish touch. It's suitable for both casual and formal wear. Consider using it for dresses, shirts, or trousers, particularly in fabrics like silk, cotton, or linen. It pairs well with neutral colors such as white, black, and gray, as well as complementary colors like coral or mustard yellow for a bolder look. Accessories such as scarves, handbags, and jewelry can also feature #185180 to add a pop of color and elegance to an outfit.