Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
The hex color #194D70, known as Chathams Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility, stability, and professionalism. It belongs to the blue color family and has relatively low saturation and brightness, giving it a sophisticated and understated appearance. In the RGB color model, #194D70 is composed of 9.8% red, 30.2% green, and 43.9% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 78% cyan, 31% magenta, 0% yellow, and 56% black. This color is often associated with trust, reliability, and calmness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding, web design, and interior decoration where a sense of stability and composure is desired. Its subdued nature allows it to be paired with brighter accent colors to create a balanced and visually appealing palette.
The hex color #194D70, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility challenges primarily due to its relatively low lightness value. This deep, muted blue may not provide sufficient contrast when used as text against a white or light-colored background, 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 standard text and 3:1 for large text. It is crucial to evaluate the contrast ratio of #194D70 against intended background colors using online contrast checkers. Implementing higher contrast ratios ensures readability for users with low vision and those using devices in bright environments. To improve accessibility, consider lightening the color or pairing it with a lighter foreground text color to meet accessibility standards and ensure a better user experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that provides a safe and accessible option for text and background combinations.
- #3b7ab5
This color shares a similar hue but is brighter, improving readability against darker backgrounds.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, #194D70 can be effectively used for navigation bars and headers to create a professional and calming aesthetic. When used in combination with lighter accent colors, it offers a balance of visual appeal and usability. Ensure adequate contrast with text elements for accessibility. Furthermore, its association with trust and stability makes it suitable for financial or corporate websites. Careful consideration should be given to its interaction with other design elements to maintain a cohesive and user-friendly interface.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue can serve as a sophisticated wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a serene and relaxing ambiance. It pairs well with neutral furniture tones and natural materials like wood and linen. The color can also be used in smaller doses, such as for accent pillows or decorative items, to add depth and richness to a space. Complementary colors, such as mustard yellow or warm grays, can further enhance its visual impact and create a balanced and inviting environment.
Fashion
In fashion, Chathams Blue can be used for elegant evening wear or professional business attire. It pairs well with silver or gold accessories, adding a touch of sophistication. The color is versatile and suitable for various fabrics, from silk to wool, making it a popular choice for designers. It's also great for casual wear such as denim or knitwear. Consider combining it with neutral tones like beige or cream for a classic and timeless look.