Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
The hex color #1A3B56, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue with a hint of green. It evokes a sense of tranquility, sophistication, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 10.2% red, 23.1% green, and 33.7% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 69.7% cyan, 31.4% magenta, 0% yellow, and 66.3% black. Nile Blue is often associated with professionalism, trust, and calmness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and design. It is frequently used in websites, logos, and marketing materials to convey a sense of reliability and competence.
The hex color #1a3b56, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure readability. A light text color, such as white (#ffffff) or a very pale yellow, is generally recommended to achieve sufficient contrast, adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text. When using #1a3b56 for text, ensure the background is a light color. Tools and online resources are readily available to assess color contrast ratios and assist in selecting accessible color combinations, promoting inclusivity and usability for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2c5379
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast in some situations.
- #0e2233
A darker shade that can be used for backgrounds and provides a subtle, sophisticated feel.
- #333333
This gray is a good alternative when a neutral tone is needed but the design is aiming for a slightly more colorful palette.
Applications
Website Design
Nile Blue (#1A3B56) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a professional and calming impression. Its deep, muted tone is suitable for technology, finance, or corporate websites. When paired with a clean, sans-serif font in white or light gray, it enhances readability and provides a modern look. It is often used with gradients to create a dynamic visual effect. In addition, the color is an excellent choice for navigation bars, buttons, and other interactive elements to guide users through the site with a harmonious and understated elegance.
Interior Design
In interior design, Nile Blue serves as an excellent choice for creating a serene and sophisticated ambiance. It works beautifully as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms. Pairing it with neutral furniture like beige sofas or light wooden cabinets can provide a balanced and inviting space. Complementary colors such as light grays, creams, or even touches of muted gold can be incorporated in cushions, rugs, or artwork to enhance the overall aesthetic and make the room feel cozy and refined.
Fashion Design
Nile Blue can be incorporated into clothing designs to provide a subtle, classy look. The color works as an excellent selection for professional clothing such as suits, skirts, or business-casual wear. It is a non-obtrusive, versatile color that can be matched with various styles, and its darker tone helps avoid attention when that is desired. The color is a good alternative to dark gray, and can be matched with accessories and patterns to create a diverse style.