Biscay
General Information about Biscay
The hex color #222B5E, also known as Biscay, is a dark, muted shade of blue-purple. It belongs to the blue color family and has a relatively low saturation, which gives it a subtle and sophisticated appearance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 16.86% green, and 36.86% blue. The color is often associated with qualities like calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. In branding and design, Biscay can evoke a sense of professionalism and reliability, making it suitable for industries such as finance, technology, and healthcare. Its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice that can be paired with a variety of other colors to create different effects.
The color #222B5E, also known as Biscay, presents challenges in terms of accessibility, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against standard light backgrounds, making it difficult to read text or distinguish elements. To improve accessibility, it is recommended to use this color with lighter shades that significantly increase the contrast ratio to meet WCAG guidelines. Consider using a color contrast checker to ensure that the combination of #222B5E and any foreground color achieves an acceptable contrast ratio, ideally 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole means of conveying important information, as users with color blindness may not be able to perceive it effectively. Supplement with text labels or icons to ensure usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Biscay (#222B5E) can be used sparingly as an accent color for headers, borders, or interactive elements. Due to its dark nature, it should be paired with lighter backgrounds to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be utilized in website footers or navigation bars to create a sense of depth and sophistication. When used in branding, Biscay can convey trustworthiness and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites or financial institutions. However, avoid using it extensively for text or primary UI elements to prevent eye strain and accessibility issues.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Biscay (#222B5E) can serve as a sophisticated wall color in bedrooms or studies, creating a calming and serene atmosphere. It pairs well with lighter furniture and accents in shades of white, cream, or light gray to balance the darkness. Biscay can also be used in smaller doses for accent walls, decorative items, or upholstery to add a touch of elegance and depth to a space. The color works well with metallic accents like gold or silver.
Fashion Color
In fashion, Biscay (#222B5E) can be incorporated into evening wear, such as dresses or suits, to create a sense of understated elegance. It can also be used in accessories like handbags or scarves to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. In menswear, Biscay can be a sophisticated choice for blazers or dress shirts, offering a refined alternative to traditional navy. Pair with neutral colors like grey or beige.