Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
The hex color #223449, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family but possesses a certain depth and subtlety that sets it apart from brighter blues. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 20.39% green, and 28.63% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 53% cyan, 29% magenta, 0% yellow, and 71% black. This color is often associated with feelings of tranquility, stability, and professionalism. It is a versatile color that can be used in a variety of design applications, from web design to interior design, where a sense of calm and sophistication is desired.
The hex color #223449, a deep and muted blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text. Its relatively low luminance necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios against background colors. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text against its background. This color may require a lighter background to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient visual cues beyond color alone should be provided to ensure usability for colorblind users. Alternatives include using contrasting borders, icons, or text decorations to convey the element's interactive state. Thoughtful design choices are essential to make content accessible to all users when employing this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #334756
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against white backgrounds, making it suitable for body text.
- #38598b
A brighter, more saturated blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements on a page.
- #444444
A neutral gray with similar darkness, for elements where color is not essential for functionality.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #223449 can be used for website headers or navigation bars to create a professional and calming atmosphere. Its dark hue works well with lighter text colors, ensuring readability. It can also be used for background elements to provide a subtle, non-distracting backdrop for content. In data visualization, this color can effectively represent one category of data. The color is suitable for sites related to finance, technology and consulting.
Interior Design
In interior design, #223449 can serve as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a cozy and sophisticated ambiance. It can also be used for furniture upholstery, such as sofas or chairs, adding a touch of elegance to the space. This color is a good choice for areas intended for relaxation and focus, such as libraries or home offices. It can be paired with warmer colors, such as beige or gold, to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
Fashion
In fashion, #223449 can be used in formal wear such as suits or evening dresses to convey a sense of sophistication and confidence. It pairs well with silver or gold accessories. In casual wear, it could be used for jeans, jackets, or sweaters to give a relaxed and stylish look. It's suitable for both men's and women's clothing and can be combined with other neutral colors or brighter accents to create a variety of outfits.