Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
Chathams Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1C4A7C, is a dark, muted shade of blue. It resides in the blue color family and is characterized by its relatively low saturation and brightness. The color derives its name from the Chathams Islands, a remote archipelago east of New Zealand, which may suggest an association with the deep ocean or maritime themes. In the RGB color model, #1C4A7C is composed of 11% red, 29% green, and 49% blue. This composition contributes to its cool and calming appearance. The color is often perceived as stable, trustworthy, and professional, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and web design where reliability and competence are desired. Furthermore, in a CMYK color model, #1C4A7C consists of 78% cyan, 63% magenta, 0% yellow and 51% black.
The color #1C4A7C, also known as Chathams Blue, presents specific accessibility considerations. Its relatively dark hue necessitates careful selection of foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast, especially for text. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against backgrounds. When using #1C4A7C, lighter shades of yellow, white, or light gray are advisable for text to meet these standards. Insufficient contrast can significantly hinder readability for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Designers should leverage contrast checking tools during the design process to validate compliance with accessibility benchmarks and refine color pairings accordingly. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey essential information; employ supplementary cues like text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity. Regular accessibility audits and user testing with diverse audiences are also crucial to identify and address any unforeseen usability challenges associated with this color choice.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Chathams Blue (#1C4A7C) can be used to create a calm and professional atmosphere on a website. Its deep blue tone communicates trust and stability. Therefore, it's suitable for websites in the finance, healthcare, or education sectors. Use it for navigation bars, headers, or as a background for call-to-action buttons to draw attention. Complement it with light gray or white text for optimal readability. This color can also effectively highlight important information on the website without being too distracting. Consider using it alongside a secondary accent color like a muted gold or a soft teal to create a balanced and visually appealing interface. Its calm nature also allows it to be used on websites with lots of text to avoid overwhelming users.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue (#1C4A7C) evokes a sense of tranquility and sophistication. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming environment. When paired with natural wood tones and soft textures, it brings a touch of elegance to any space. Consider using it for upholstery on sofas or armchairs for a pop of color. It also works well in bathrooms, especially when combined with white tiles and silver fixtures. The depth of the color provides a comforting embrace. It's crucial to balance it with lighter elements to avoid making the room feel too dark or closed off. Accessories such as lamps, cushions or artwork can also be selected to complement this blue shade.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Chathams Blue (#1C4A7C) can be used as a versatile and elegant color choice. It works well for both casual and formal wear, and its sophisticated hue makes it suitable for dresses, suits, or outerwear. It pairs well with neutral colors such as white, gray, and beige, as well as brighter colors like coral or mustard yellow. The versatility of this blue shade also makes it suitable for accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry. The depth of the colour can also be used as a staple colour. It can also work as a basic element to a wardrobe by adding a touch of sophistication. This colour suits various skin tones and can be adapted to different styles.