Bay of Many
General Information about #1C3A7C
The hex color #1C3A7C, also known as "Bay of Many," is a dark, muted shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 11.0% red, 22.7% green, and 48.6% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 77.4% cyan, 53.3% magenta, 0.0% yellow, and 51.4% black. This color evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. Due to its dark nature, it's often associated with professionalism, trust, and reliability. It's commonly used in corporate branding, web design, and interior design to create a sense of authority and depth. Its dark saturation makes it less vibrant and more understated, lending itself to designs that require a serious or contemplative mood. The name "Bay of Many" suggests a connection to water and nature, hinting at serenity and vastness.
The hex color #1C3A7C, also known as Bay of Many, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a foreground color on a white or light-colored background. Its low lightness value results in a low contrast ratio, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text or distinguish elements using this color. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text, and 3:1 for large text, to meet WCAG AA standards. When using #1C3A7C, consider pairing it with a very light color like #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 to ensure sufficient contrast. Alternatively, using it as a background color with a very light foreground text color can also improve accessibility. It's crucial to test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify contrast ratios and address any potential usability issues for people with disabilities. Remember to consider users with color blindness; ensure that color isn't the only means of conveying information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #336699
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds.
- #002266
A darker shade of blue, suitable for backgrounds or elements that need to stand out more prominently.
- #2E4A82
This color provides a higher contrast ratio when paired with white text, improving readability and accessibility.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1C3A7C can be used for navigation bars, headers, or as an accent color to create a sense of trust and stability. Due to its darker nature, it's best suited for backgrounds or larger elements, paired with lighter text for readability. Its serious and sophisticated tone makes it suitable for professional websites, particularly those in finance, technology, or education. For example, using it as a background for a call-to-action button with white text can draw attention while maintaining a clean and professional look. Also #1C3A7C can create a professional but not overly serious design. Keep in mind to consider the contrast ratio with the text, especially for longer text.
Branding
#1C3A7C is well-suited for branding materials aiming for a sophisticated and reliable image. It can be effectively used in logos, business cards, and letterheads to convey professionalism and trustworthiness. The color's depth makes it suitable for creating a sense of authority and stability. Consider pairing it with lighter colors, such as creams or light grays, to maintain visual balance. Using it sparingly as an accent color can add a touch of elegance without overpowering the overall design. A great place to use it is for brands that want to come across as trustworthy and established.
Interior Design
In interior design, #1C3A7C can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white. Consider using it for upholstery or decorative pillows to add a touch of elegance and depth to the space. Using it sparingly can prevent the room from feeling too dark or heavy. For example, paint a single wall in #1C3A7C and complement it with light-colored furniture and accessories to achieve a balanced and harmonious look.