Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue (#1A324D)
The hex color #1A324D, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue with a hint of green. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its depth and subtlety. In the RGB color model, #1A324D consists of 10.2% red, 20% green, and 30.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 66% cyan, 34% magenta, 0% yellow, and 70% black. This color is often associated with calmness, stability, and professionalism. It evokes a sense of serenity and reliability, making it a popular choice for branding and design applications where trust and competence are key. Its subdued nature makes it versatile and easy to pair with a variety of other colors, allowing for a wide range of design possibilities. The color's name, Nile Blue, suggests a connection to the Nile River and its associated imagery of ancient Egypt.
The hex color #1A324D, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively low luminance can pose challenges in ensuring sufficient contrast with both foreground and background elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet Level AA compliance. When using #1A324D for text, careful selection of a light background color is crucial. Conversely, if #1A324D is used as a background, a light text color should be chosen. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the contrast ratio. It's also vital to consider users with low vision or color blindness, who may have difficulty distinguishing between colors with low contrast. Providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, can enhance accessibility. For decorative elements, ensure that the color doesn't convey critical information or functionality.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5984
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast while retaining a similar aesthetic.
- #e0e0e0
A neutral gray that can serve as a complementary background color, providing better readability.
- #0e2233
A deeper shade of blue which creates a sophisticated, high-contrast background for lighter text.
Applications
Website Header/Sidebar
In web design, #1A324D can be effectively used for creating a calm and professional header or sidebar. Its dark tone provides a strong base for light-colored text and graphical elements. It works particularly well for websites in the technology, finance, or education sectors, where trustworthiness and stability are important design considerations. Furthermore, paired with complementary accent colors, this shade can add depth and visual interest without being overly distracting. It is also a good pick for creating a dark-themed website or application, which are becoming increasingly popular for reducing eye strain and saving energy on OLED screens. Ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Nile Blue (#1A324D) can be utilized to create a sophisticated and serene atmosphere. It can be applied as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, providing a calming backdrop for furniture and artwork. The color works well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the sense of tranquility. It is best suited for rooms with ample natural light to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. Consider pairing it with warm neutrals or metallic accents to add depth and visual interest. Soft textures and ample lighting can help to offset the cool tone, creating a balanced and inviting space. Combining it with natural or warm artifical light sources will enhance its natural elegance.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, this color can be incorporated into clothing designs for a sophisticated and understated look. It works well for professional attire, such as suits and dresses, conveying a sense of competence and reliability. It can also be used as an accent color in casual wear, such as sweaters and scarves, adding a touch of elegance without being too ostentatious. It can be paired with neutral colors such as gray, beige, or white for a classic and timeless look, or with bolder colors such as red or yellow for a more contemporary and eye-catching effect. Accessorizing with metallic jewelry and a matching handbag can enhance its elegance.