Nile Blue
General Information about #1E3B4C
#1E3B4C, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, desaturated cyan color that evokes a sense of calmness and sophistication. It belongs to the blue color family, specifically a muted shade that incorporates elements of gray and green. This hex code translates to RGB values of R: 30, G: 59, B: 76, indicating the relative intensities of red, green, and blue light that combine to produce this color. In the CMYK color model, used primarily for printing, #1E3B4C is represented as C: 60, M: 22, Y: 0, K: 70. This means it's composed of 60% cyan, 22% magenta, 0% yellow, and 70% black ink. The color is often associated with stability, trust, and depth, making it a popular choice in various design applications. Its subtle nature also makes it suitable for backgrounds and elements where a strong visual impact is not desired.
The hex color #1E3B4C, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires careful consideration of the foreground text color. A light text color, such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very pale yellow, is generally recommended to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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. Tools are available to measure this contrast ratio to verify compliance. When this color is used for interactive elements, such as buttons or links, it's crucial to provide clear visual cues, like changes in color or state on hover or focus, to aid users with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. Avoid using color alone to convey meaning; supplement it with text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1E3B4C can be employed to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can serve as a primary background color for headers or sidebars, especially for websites related to technology, finance, or corporate services. The dark, muted tone evokes feelings of trust and stability. When paired with complementary colors like a soft orange or gold, it creates a visually appealing and balanced aesthetic. This color is also suitable for data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, where it can be used to differentiate data sets effectively.
Interior Design
In interior design, #1E3B4C is an excellent choice for creating a serene and elegant space. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, especially when combined with lighter, warmer tones. The color can be used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or even as the main color for textiles like curtains or rugs. Its calming properties make it suitable for creating a relaxing environment. Consider pairing it with natural materials like wood or stone to enhance its organic feel.
Fashion
In fashion, #1E3B4C can be utilized to design versatile and timeless clothing pieces. The color works beautifully for sophisticated outerwear such as jackets or coats, as well as for elegant dresses or formal wear. It also serves as a good color option for accessories like handbags, scarves, or hats. Its neutrality makes it a flexible color that can be matched with many other colors such as greys, creams and whites. This color is well-suited for both casual and formal outfits.