Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
The hex color #1A384A, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue with a hint of green. It belongs to the family of cool colors and carries a sense of calmness and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #1A384A is composed of 10.2% red, 21.96% green, and 29.02% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 65% cyan, 24% magenta, 0% yellow, and 71% black. This color is often associated with stability, depth, and trust, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional designs. Its subtle nature allows it to be versatile and adaptable, blending well with both light and dark color palettes. Nile Blue's understated elegance lends itself well to creating a sense of understated luxury.
The hex color #1A384A, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background or text color. Its relatively low lightness value (approximately 13%) means that it requires careful consideration of color contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. When using #1A384A for text, it's essential to pair it with a very light color to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). For background usage, similar contrast considerations apply, and non-text elements should also meet a minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 against #1A384A. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with these standards. Failure to meet these contrast requirements can result in content being difficult or impossible for some users to read or interact with, undermining the accessibility of the design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #34568b
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white text, making it more accessible and readable.
- #6c757d
A neutral gray that works well as a background color and offers good contrast with darker text, suitable for layouts where legibility is important.
- #008080
A vibrant teal that complements the Nile Blue, offering a brighter alternative for highlighting elements or creating visual interest.
Applications
Web Design and UI Elements
In web design, #1A384A can serve as an elegant background for headers or sidebars, especially for websites targeting a sophisticated or professional audience. It pairs well with lighter text colors like white or cream to ensure readability. In user interface design, this color can be used for navigational elements or interactive components, providing a subtle yet distinct visual cue. The color evokes a sense of calm and reliability, making it suitable for applications related to finance, technology, or consulting.
Interior Design
In interior design, #1A384A can be utilized to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in living rooms or bedrooms. It works particularly well when combined with natural materials like wood or stone, and can be complemented by metallic accents like gold or copper. The color also serves as a grounding hue for bolder and brighter colors. Consider using this color for accent walls or furniture pieces to add depth and character to the space.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #1A384A can be incorporated into clothing designs, particularly for outerwear or formal wear. It serves as a versatile neutral that pairs well with a variety of other colors, allowing for both subtle and bold styling choices. This color can also be used in accessories such as scarves or handbags to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. The color is associated with professionalism and dependability, making it suitable for corporate attire or business casual ensembles.