Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
The hexadecimal color #223B50, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue-gray. It belongs to the family of cool colors and evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. The color code is composed of 13.33% red, 23.14% green, and 31.37% blue. In the RGB color space, it has a higher blue component, which contributes to its cool undertone. Nile Blue is often associated with professionalism and trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and web design. Its muted nature allows it to blend seamlessly with other colors, making it versatile for various applications. The color has a luminance of 0.106, making it relatively dark. It is best paired with lighter shades to create contrast and visual interest.
The color #223B50, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text against a white background. Its relatively low luminance value of 0.106 means that it doesn't provide sufficient contrast for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Nile Blue falls short of these recommendations, making it difficult for some users to read. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with lighter colors for text or using it sparingly for decorative elements. Alternatively, adjusting the color to be slightly lighter can improve the contrast ratio and enhance readability, ensuring a more inclusive user experience. When used for interactive elements, provide clear visual cues beyond color to ensure usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #335470
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic while improving contrast for better readability and accessibility, especially when used for text or interactive elements.
- #224b60
A more saturated shade that provides a bolder visual impact, making it suitable for accent colors or design elements where visibility is key.
- #334b50
A greyer shade with a similar feel, which may be more appropriate for backgrounds or areas where a less dominant colour is needed.
Applications
Web Design
Nile Blue, with its subdued and sophisticated tone, is a wonderful choice for crafting elegant and calming web interfaces. Consider using it for website headers, navigation menus, or as a background color for sections where you want to convey a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness. Its dark hue works well with lighter text colors, creating a visually appealing and easy-to-read design. In data visualization, employ Nile Blue for charts and graphs to represent important data points, ensuring they stand out without overwhelming the user. Its versatility makes it suitable for various industries, from corporate websites to educational platforms.
Interior Design
In interior design, Nile Blue brings a sense of tranquility and depth to any space. Use it as a wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to create a relaxing atmosphere. Pair it with lighter neutrals like beige or cream to balance the darkness and add warmth. Nile Blue also works well in accent pieces such as throw pillows, curtains, or rugs, providing pops of color without being too overpowering. It complements natural materials like wood and stone, making it suitable for a variety of design styles, from modern to traditional. Consider using it in bathrooms to evoke a spa-like ambiance, promoting relaxation and well-being.
Fashion
In fashion, Nile Blue adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any outfit. Use it for dresses, suits, or outerwear to create a refined and professional look. Pair it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic ensemble, or add pops of color with accessories in complementary shades. Nile Blue also works well in casual wear, such as jeans, sweaters, or t-shirts, providing a subtle yet stylish touch. It is suitable for both men and women, making it a versatile choice for any wardrobe. Accessorize with silver or gold jewelry to enhance its elegance, completing the look with sophistication and style.