Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
The hexadecimal color #1B4E80, commonly known as Chathams Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue with a slight grayish undertone. It is located in the blue color range of the spectrum and exhibits characteristics of both coolness and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #1B4E80 is composed of 10.6% red, 30.6% green, and 50.2% blue. The CMYK representation is 79% cyan, 39% magenta, 0% yellow, and 50% black. This color evokes a sense of calmness, stability, and professionalism, often associated with trust and reliability. Chathams Blue is frequently used in corporate branding, web design, and interior decoration to create a sense of trustworthiness and dependability.
The color #1B4E80, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance can result in insufficient contrast when used as text against a white background, potentially failing WCAG standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using this color for text requires careful consideration of the background color to ensure sufficient contrast. If the background is light, consider using a darker shade of blue or a completely different color to improve readability. For interactive elements like buttons, ensure a clear visual distinction on hover or focus states to meet accessibility guidelines. Proper testing with accessibility tools is crucial to validate that the color combination meets the necessary contrast requirements for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #336699
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #003366
A darker shade that provides a stronger contrast ratio, improving readability for text elements.
- #2962ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chathams Blue can serve as a primary color for websites related to technology, finance, or corporate sectors. It evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. The color can be effectively used for navigation bars, headers, and call-to-action buttons. Combining it with complementary colors like light yellows or grays can create a balanced and visually appealing user interface. However, designers must ensure sufficient contrast when using it for text or interactive elements to meet accessibility standards and enhance usability. Careful consideration of color pairings will result in a sophisticated and user-friendly design.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It's well-suited for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. The color pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white. It can be used on walls, furniture, or accent pieces like cushions and curtains. Incorporating natural materials like wood or stone can enhance the room's overall aesthetic. Using lighter shades of blue can create a more airy and spacious feel, while darker shades can add depth and richness. Accessorizing with metallic accents can elevate the elegance of the design.
Fashion
In fashion, Chathams Blue is a versatile color that can be used for both casual and formal attire. It is a popular choice for business suits, dresses, and outerwear. It pairs well with neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as with bolder colors like red or yellow. Chathams Blue can also be used in accessories such as scarves, handbags, and jewelry. Its calming and sophisticated nature makes it a staple color in many wardrobes. It is often seen in classic and timeless designs, exuding an air of understated elegance. The color is suitable for all seasons, adapting well to various fabrics and textures.