Bay of Many
General Information about #1C397F
The hex color #1c397f, also known as Bay of Many, is a dark, muted shade of blue residing in the cool end of the color spectrum. It is composed of 11% red, 22.4% green, and 49.8% blue. This color is often associated with feelings of depth, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design projects aiming to convey trustworthiness and sophistication. Its relative darkness gives it a formal and serious tone. In color theory, #1c397f can be effectively used as a background color to make lighter elements stand out or as an accent color to add depth to a design. Its muted nature also makes it a versatile choice, pairing well with a variety of other colors. Understanding the properties and associations of #1c397f allows designers and artists to use it strategically to achieve desired effects in their work, creating visually appealing and impactful designs.
The hex color #1c397f, also known as Bay of Many, presents some accessibility considerations for web design. Its relatively dark hue means that using it as a background color requires careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Therefore, using light colors such as white (#ffffff) or very light grays as text on a #1c397f background is advisable. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Conversely, using #1c397f as a text color on a white or very light background might also pose readability challenges, necessitating the use of a thicker font weight or larger font size to improve legibility. Ensure interactive elements using this color have distinct visual cues to aid users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #335299
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while potentially offering better contrast ratios in some contexts.
- #0e2454
A darker shade for situations where even higher contrast is required, while still staying within the blue color family.
- #4a648d
A softer, muted blue that can provide a gentler visual experience while remaining distinct.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #1c397f can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or navigation bars, especially for websites aiming to convey professionalism and trust. It pairs well with clean, minimalist designs and can be complemented by lighter accent colors to draw attention to key elements. The deep blue evokes a sense of stability and can be particularly effective for financial institutions, legal firms, or educational platforms. Careful consideration of font choices and contrast ratios is crucial to maintain readability and ensure accessibility standards are met, enhancing the overall user experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #1c397f can be used as an accent wall color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works particularly well in studies, libraries, or bedrooms where a calming and focused environment is desired. Paired with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, it creates a balanced and harmonious space. Accents of metallic gold or silver can further enhance the luxurious feel. The color's inherent depth also makes it suitable for upholstery, such as sofas or armchairs, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to the overall decor.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #1c397f can be used as a base color for elegant evening wear or sophisticated business attire. It can be paired with neutral colors like black, gray, or white for a classic look, or with complementary colors like mustard yellow or burnt orange for a bolder statement. The color's depth and richness make it suitable for luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication. It is also suitable for accessories such as handbags, shoes, or scarves, providing a subtle pop of color to any outfit.