Astronaut
General Information about #223B76
The hexadecimal color #223B76, often referred to as "Astronaut," is a deep, muted shade of blue with a hint of purple. It belongs to the blue color family and exhibits a relatively low saturation, giving it a sophisticated and calming appearance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 23.14% green, and 46.27% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.71, 0.50, 0.00, and 0.54. The low red and green values, combined with a higher blue component, result in its characteristic deep blue hue. This color is often associated with professionalism, stability, and trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and website design.
The color #223B76, also known as Astronaut, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its relatively low luminance value of 0.03 means it offers insufficient contrast against light backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color likely falls short of these recommendations when paired with standard white (#FFFFFF). To improve accessibility, consider using #223B76 with much lighter colors or using it for purely decorative elements. Testing color combinations with accessibility tools is crucial to ensuring inclusivity for all users. Additionally, providing alternative cues, such as icons or text labels, can help users with color vision deficiency or other visual impairments to navigate and understand the content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade offering better contrast against dark backgrounds, improving readability and visual clarity.
- #335399
A slightly desaturated variant that can provide a softer aesthetic while maintaining a similar mood.
- #3b5cac
A brighter color with similar hue that can be used to highlight interactive elements on the page.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Astronaut (#223B76) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a sense of sophistication and trust. Its deep, calming tone makes it suitable for businesses aiming to convey stability and reliability. When combined with lighter accent colors, such as off-white or pale yellow, it can enhance the overall user experience. This color is particularly well-suited for websites in the finance, technology, and education sectors. Careful consideration of typography and contrast ratios is essential to ensure readability and accessibility.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Astronaut (#223B76) can serve as a sophisticated accent color for walls or furniture. Its depth adds richness and a sense of luxury to spaces. It pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white, creating a balanced and harmonious environment. Consider using it in bedrooms or living rooms to foster relaxation and tranquility. Incorporating metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can further enhance the color's elegance. Proper lighting is crucial to fully appreciate the color's nuances.
Branding
Astronaut can be used in branding to create a sense of authority and sophistication. This color is commonly used in brands that want to convey trust and stability. It is suitable for financial institutions, law firms, and technology companies seeking to establish a strong and reliable brand identity. The color can be paired with a contrasting accent color to create a memorable and impactful logo. Consistent application of the color across all branding materials is essential for reinforcing brand recognition and trust.