Chathams Blue
General Information
Chathams Blue, represented by the hex code #215277, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility, stability, and sophistication. It belongs to the blue color family and possesses a relatively low saturation, giving it a calming and understated appearance. This color is often associated with professionalism, trustworthiness, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs that aim to convey a sense of reliability and composure. Its name suggests a connection to maritime or nautical themes, further enhancing its associations with serenity and depth. The color is created by combining specific proportions of red, green and blue light, following the additive color model.
The hex color #215277, also known as Chathams Blue, presents certain accessibility challenges due to its relatively dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires light-colored text (white or very light shades of gray) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG 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 to meet AA compliance. A contrast checker tool is highly recommended to verify compliance. Conversely, if #215277 is used for text, it should be placed on a very light background to meet accessibility standards. Considering these factors is crucial in web design to provide an inclusive experience for all users. Using color alone to convey information should be avoided; instead, additional cues like text labels or icons should be incorporated.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark text, improving readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that works well as a background color, offering good contrast with both light and dark text.
- #add8e6
A light blue option that still evokes a sense of calmness, while providing greater contrast for text elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chathams Blue can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or sidebars, conveying a sense of professionalism and trust. When used sparingly, it can highlight important sections without overwhelming the user. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, light gray, or beige, creating a balanced and visually appealing interface. However, careful consideration should be given to text color to ensure optimal readability and accessibility, making it suitable for educational platforms or corporate websites.
Interior Design
In interior design, this shade of blue can be used to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as an accent wall color or can be incorporated through furniture and decorative elements. Complementary colors such as warm yellows or oranges can be used to create a balanced and inviting space. The deep blue tone adds depth and sophistication, making it a popular choice for creating a serene environment.
Fashion
In fashion, Chathams Blue can be used in apparel to create a sophisticated and elegant look. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and handbags. This color pairs well with neutral tones such as white, black, and gray, as well as complementary colors like mustard yellow or coral. The color is suitable for both casual and formal wear, offering versatility in creating different styles. The depth of the color adds a touch of refinement, making it ideal for creating a polished and put-together appearance.