Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
The hex color #203852, commonly known as Nile Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility, sophistication, and depth. It is often associated with professionalism and stability, making it a popular choice for various applications, including web design, branding, and interior decoration. In the RGB color model, #203852 is composed of 12.55% red, 21.96% green, and 32.16% blue. This particular combination gives it a cool, calming presence. From a color psychology perspective, Nile Blue can promote a sense of trust and reliability. Its subtle nature allows it to be used effectively as a background color or as a primary color in designs that require a touch of elegance. It's a versatile color that is widely appreciated in the creative fields. The color name Nile Blue refers to the Nile river, where the first synthetic dye was made with that color.
The hex color #203852, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires careful consideration of the foreground text color to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), the contrast ratio between the text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given the darkness of #203852, lighter text colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays are recommended to meet these guidelines. It is imperative to test the color combination with accessibility tools to verify compliance. Using this color for interactive elements such as buttons or links necessitates clear visual cues beyond color alone to ensure usability for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #334756
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #294aa3
A more saturated blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements while offering a similar mood.
- #a7b1ba
This greyish tone captures the muted essence of Nile Blue, offering a versatile neutral for backgrounds and text where subtlety is key.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Nile Blue (#203852) evokes a sense of calm and sophistication, making it suitable for websites related to finance, consulting, or technology. Its deep, muted tone creates a professional and trustworthy atmosphere. Using it for the main website background or for section headings can establish a strong brand identity. To enhance user experience, combine it with clean typography and ample white space, ensuring readability and a modern aesthetic. Accent colors like light gold or teal can complement Nile Blue, adding visual interest without overpowering the overall design.
Interior Design - Bedroom
In interior design, Nile Blue can be used to create a relaxing and serene environment. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, especially when paired with natural materials like wood and linen. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for upholstery. The color's calming effect makes it suitable for spaces where relaxation is desired. To avoid a monotonous look, introduce textures and patterns that complement the blue, such as geometric cushions or woven rugs. This color evokes serenity and relaxation.
Fashion Design - Formal Wear
Nile Blue can be incorporated into fashion design, particularly for creating sophisticated and timeless pieces. It is an excellent choice for formal wear or professional attire, offering a refined alternative to traditional black or navy. The color works well with various fabrics, from silk to wool. To create a balanced look, pair Nile Blue garments with neutral accessories such as beige shoes or a gray scarf. The color lends itself well to both structured and flowing designs.