Biscay
General Information about #1E3461
The hexadecimal color code #1E3461 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Biscay. It is composed of 11.76% red, 20.39% green, and 38.04% blue. In the RGB color model, #1E3461 has the values of 30 red, 52 green, and 97 blue. In the CMYK color model, its values are 69.07% cyan, 46.39% magenta, 0% yellow, and 62.35% black. This dark blue hue is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and professionalism. Its versatility makes it suitable for various applications, from web design to interior decorating. The color can evoke a sense of trust and sophistication, making it a popular choice for businesses and organizations seeking to project a reliable and trustworthy image.
The color #1E3461, also known as Biscay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, the minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1, and for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), it's 3:1. Due to its dark nature, #1E3461 will require light-colored text to meet these standards. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can be used to test specific color combinations. Also, consider providing alternative cues beyond color, such as underlines for links or icons for different states, to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies. Thoughtful design choices can significantly improve the usability of content using #1E3461.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can provide a more subtle background color with good contrast for text.
- #000080
A very dark shade of blue, almost black, it can be a good alternative in cases where you want to offer a very dark design and still have contrast.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1E3461 can be used for website headers, navigation bars, or as a background color for specific sections to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Because it's a dark color, ensure that text and interactive elements placed on top of it have sufficient contrast. It can also be incorporated into charts and graphs to represent data points or categories, providing a visually appealing and informative representation.
Interior & Fashion Design
In interior design, #1E3461 can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with lighter colors such as creams, grays, or even metallic accents to add visual interest and balance. Consider using it in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices to create a tranquil and productive environment. In fashion design, it can be used for evening wear, suits, or accessories to add a touch of elegance and refinement.
Branding
#1E3461, with its subtle blue undertones, lends itself beautifully to brand identities aiming to convey trust, stability, and sophistication. It works exceptionally well for companies in the financial, technology, or consulting sectors, offering a sense of reliability. Use it judiciously in logos, website design, and marketing materials to establish a consistent and trustworthy brand image. This color can also be coupled with lighter shades or contrasting colors to make key elements pop.