Cello
General Information about #223F5A
The hex color code #223F5A, often referred to as 'Cello', is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, tranquility, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 24.71% green, and 35.29% blue. The color is more heavily weighted towards the blue end of the spectrum, giving it its characteristic cool tone. In the HSL color space, #223F5A has a hue of 212 degrees, a saturation of 46%, and a lightness of 24%. This means it is a relatively desaturated color, contributing to its subtle and understated nature. The color #223F5A is often associated with professionalism, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for various applications.
The hex color #223F5A, also known as Cello, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its relatively low luminance (a measure of brightness) results in a lower contrast ratio when paired with lighter background colors like white or yellow. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability, particularly for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's recommended to use #223F5A with much lighter colors to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help in verifying compliance. Avoid using this color for crucial interactive elements without adequate contrast, as it can hinder usability for many users. When using #223F5A for background colors, opt for white or very light gray text to improve readability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #335c7a
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #1a304a
A darker shade for use as a background color to ensure readability with lighter colored text.
- #455a64
A muted greyish blue that provides a softer, more subtle appearance while maintaining some of the original color's character.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #223F5A can be employed to create a sophisticated and professional look, particularly in the headers or footers of websites. It provides a calm and collected vibe, making it suitable for sites targeting business or informational content. When used as a background color for sections, it gives depth and contrast, especially when paired with white or light-colored text. It's also an excellent choice for charts and graphs when you want to communicate data in a clear and authoritative manner.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cello adds an elegant touch to walls or accent pieces, creating a soothing and modern ambiance. This can be especially effective in bedrooms or living rooms, where a sense of tranquility is desired. Pair it with lighter, neutral tones like beige or light gray to prevent the space from feeling too dark. You can also incorporate it into textiles such as curtains or cushions to provide subtle pops of color that complement the overall aesthetic.
Fashion
In fashion, #223F5A brings a sense of understated sophistication to clothing and accessories. It is suitable for elegant dresses, formal suits, or casual outerwear, offering versatility across different styles. The color works particularly well for winter collections, providing a subtle contrast with the muted tones of the season. Pair it with silver or gold accessories for a more polished and refined look, or opt for leather accents to add a touch of ruggedness and texture.