Bay of Many
General Information about #223B80
The hex color #223B80, also known as 'Bay of Many', is a dark, muted shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 13.33% red, 23.14% green, and 50.2% blue. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design projects aiming to evoke trust and professionalism. The name 'Bay of Many' suggests a connection to deep waters or nautical themes, and evokes a sense of tranquility. In a broader sense, the hexadecimal system represents colors using a combination of six alphanumeric characters, where each pair of characters represents the intensity of red, green, and blue respectively, allowing for over 16 million different color variations. Bay of Many’s specific combination gives it the rich depth characteristic of a deep blue.
The hex color #223B80, also known as Bay of Many, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance value can lead to insufficient contrast when used as text against a white or very light background. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #223B80 for text, careful consideration must be given to the background color to ensure adequate contrast. Using a lighter shade of yellow, orange, or even a very light green as a background color could significantly improve readability. For interactive elements like buttons, ensuring sufficient contrast in both the normal and hover states is essential. Also, consider using colorblindness simulators to assess how the color is perceived by individuals with different types of color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #000080
A darker shade of blue that provides a stronger contrast when used on lighter backgrounds.
- #708090
A muted grayish-blue that is easier on the eyes and can work well in minimalist designs.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
This color, with its depth and richness, can be used as a primary color in website designs for financial institutions or corporate entities that want to project stability and trustworthiness. Paired with lighter accent colors like creams or light grays, it creates a professional and sophisticated look. It can also be used for call-to-action buttons, but always keeping accessibility in mind.
Cosmetics and Beauty
Bay of Many offers a touch of elegance and can be used as eyeshadow or eyeliner to create a sophisticated and mysterious look. It complements fair skin tones beautifully. When used in nail polish, #223B80 provides a chic and understated alternative to brighter colors and can be a great option for business or formal events.
Interior Design Accent
As an accent color in interior design, #223B80 can bring a sense of calm and sophistication to a room. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, especially when combined with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white. It can be used in decorative pillows, throws, or wall art to add a pop of color without being overwhelming. This color is also suitable for creating a relaxing atmosphere in spas or wellness centers.