Big Stone
General Information about #1E3440
The hexadecimal color code #1E3440, commonly referred to as "Big Stone," is a dark, muted shade of blue-gray. It is composed of 11.76% red, 20.39% green, and 25.1% blue. In the RGB color space, it is closer to blue than red or green. This color evokes a sense of calmness, stability, and sophistication. It is often associated with professionalism, reliability, and trustworthiness. Due to its dark nature, it is important to consider contrast when using #1E3440, particularly in textual applications, to ensure readability and accessibility. The color is located in the lower saturation area of the color space, causing the calm and soothing feeling.
The hex color #1E3440, also known as Big Stone, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its relatively low luminance (brightness) necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios. When used as a background color, it's crucial to pair it with text that is sufficiently light to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to comply with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. For AAA compliance, even higher contrast ratios are needed. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if a color combination meets these guidelines. Avoid using #1E3440 for crucial interface elements or interactive components without ensuring adequate contrast, as this could create barriers for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1E3440 can create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere, especially for websites related to finance, technology, or corporate services. It works well as a background for hero sections or as a primary color for navigation menus, particularly when paired with white or light-colored text and accent colors. The color evokes feelings of reliability and trust, making it suitable for establishing a professional brand image. It can be incorporated into website elements such as buttons, icons, and dividers to create a cohesive and visually appealing user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #1E3440 can be used to create a serene and sophisticated ambiance in living rooms or bedrooms. It works well as a wall color, especially when combined with natural wood tones and soft textures. Accenting with lighter blues, grays, or even pops of mustard yellow can create a balanced and inviting space. The color's calming properties make it suitable for creating a relaxing atmosphere, while its depth adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the room. It could be used on the walls in a yoga studio, or a chillout room.
Fashion
In fashion, #1E3440 can be incorporated into both casual and formal wear. It works well as a base color for outfits, especially for outerwear such as jackets and coats. Pairing it with lighter blues, grays, or even pops of mustard yellow can create a balanced and inviting space. The color's calming properties make it suitable for creating a relaxing atmosphere, while its depth adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the overall appearance. It is a solid alternative to the standard black or navy blue.