Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
Nile Blue, with the hexadecimal color code #1E3D4A, is a muted, cool-toned color that evokes feelings of calmness and sophistication. It is a dark shade of cyan-blue, often associated with the waters of the Nile River, hence its name. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 11.8% red, 23.9% green, and 29% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is used for printing, it consists of 59% cyan, 17% magenta, 0% yellow, and 71% black. This color falls within the blue-green color spectrum, and its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice for various design applications. It provides a sense of depth and stability. Nile Blue is often used to create a calming and professional aesthetic, suitable for both digital and physical environments. Its subtle nature allows it to blend well with other colors, making it a useful neutral in color palettes.
The color #1E3D4A, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance contrast against a white background means that text rendered in this color may be difficult for users with visual impairments to read comfortably. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Nile Blue often falls short of these recommendations, requiring careful consideration of its use in user interfaces. Designers should pair it with lighter text colors like white or very light grays to ensure sufficient contrast. Alternatively, using Nile Blue as a background color with white or very light text can also improve readability. Tools like contrast checkers can help assess compliance with accessibility standards and guide adjustments to color pairings. Furthermore, providing alternative color schemes that offer higher contrast can cater to a wider range of user needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Nile Blue can be used for headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color to create a sophisticated and calming feel. Its muted tone works well with minimalist designs and can be paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige for a clean and professional look. It’s important to consider its accessibility, pairing it with contrasting text colors to ensure readability. Nile Blue can also be effectively used in website backgrounds, providing a subtle and elegant backdrop for content. Moreover, it's suitable for icon design, adding a touch of sophistication without being overly distracting. However, it is not recommended as the main color for buttons because of the accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Nile Blue can create a serene and calming atmosphere. It’s often used in bedrooms, bathrooms, or living rooms to evoke a sense of tranquility. It pairs well with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen, enhancing its soothing effect. Nile Blue can be used on walls, furniture, or as an accent color in décor items like cushions, curtains, and rugs. To avoid a monotonous look, it can be combined with brighter colors like yellow or orange to add a pop of energy. Consider using Nile Blue in well-lit rooms to prevent it from appearing too dark. This color is perfect for creating a relaxing and sophisticated living space.
Fashion
In fashion, Nile Blue is suitable for both casual and formal wear. It can be used in dresses, shirts, trousers, or outerwear, depending on the desired style and the season. Nile Blue pairs well with other neutral colors, such as white, gray, black, and beige, as well as bolder shades like burgundy, mustard yellow, and deep green. For a casual look, consider pairing Nile Blue jeans with a white t-shirt and sneakers. For a more formal occasion, a Nile Blue dress or suit can be accessorized with gold or silver jewelry. This color is versatile and timeless, making it a great addition to any wardrobe. This color is best used in clothing made out of cotton, linen and silk.