Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
The hex color #234B78, also known as Chathams Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue with a slightly grayish undertone. It belongs to the blue color family and exhibits qualities of both serenity and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it consists of 13.73% red, 29.41% green, and 47.06% blue. The CMYK representation is 71% cyan, 38% magenta, 0% yellow, and 53% black. This color is often associated with qualities like trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design projects that aim to convey these attributes. Its subdued nature allows it to be versatile and adaptable in various contexts, from corporate branding to creative projects.
The hex color #234b78, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Due to its relatively low luminance, it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. For text to be legible and meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, a light color must be used. Using a dark color on #234b78 will likely fail accessibility checks. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Tools such as WebAIM's contrast checker can help ensure sufficient contrast. In user interface design, ensure that interactive elements such as buttons and links are clearly distinguishable against this background to provide a good user experience for individuals with visual impairments. Using it for decorative elements generally poses less of an accessibility risk.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Chathams Blue (#234b78) provides a sophisticated and calming feel to a website's design. It is often used in headers, footers, or sidebars to establish a professional look. The color is particularly effective in industries such as finance, technology, or healthcare, where trust and reliability are paramount. When combined with a clean, minimalist layout and careful typography, it evokes a sense of stability and innovation. Using #234b78 sparingly as a dominant color, balanced with lighter shades, can create an engaging and accessible user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accents. It creates a serene and elegant atmosphere, suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or studies. The color pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic finishes like gold or silver. To balance the depth of #234b78, incorporating lighter textiles, artwork, or plants can brighten the space and prevent it from feeling too heavy. It is a versatile color that blends well with various design styles, from modern to traditional.
Fashion
Chathams Blue can be incorporated into clothing, accessories, or makeup to create a polished and refined appearance. It works well in both formal and casual settings, offering a touch of sophistication. The color can be used for dresses, suits, or blouses. As an accent color, it can be applied to ties, scarves, or handbags. In makeup, it can be used for eye shadow or eyeliner to add a subtle pop of color that complements various skin tones. Its depth allows it to combine seamlessly with neutral and brighter shades alike.