Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
The hexadecimal color #234C74, also known as Chathams Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family but possesses a certain depth and sophistication that sets it apart. In the RGB color model, it consists of 13.73% red, 29.8% green, and 45.49% blue. When represented in the CMYK color model, often used in printing, it is composed of 69.81% cyan, 34.51% magenta, 0% yellow, and 54.51% black. This color evokes a sense of calmness, stability, and professionalism, making it a popular choice in various design applications. Its relatively low saturation also contributes to its versatility, allowing it to pair well with a wide range of other colors. The name “Chathams Blue” suggests a connection to maritime environments, aligning with the color’s inherent association with the ocean and sky.
The hex color #234C74, also known as Chathams Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively dark hue means that it requires careful attention to contrast ratios, especially when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text against its background, and 3:1 for large text. When using #234C74 as a background color, ensure that the text placed on top of it is light enough to meet these contrast requirements. Lighter shades of yellow, white, or even carefully chosen lighter blues can provide adequate contrast. Furthermore, consider users with visual impairments, such as color blindness. Avoid relying solely on color to convey important information; supplement color cues with text labels, icons, or patterns to ensure that all users can understand and interact with the content effectively. Tools like online contrast checkers can be invaluable in verifying compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against dark text, making it suitable for backgrounds and highlights.
- #607b8b
A muted, desaturated blue that provides a calm and professional feel, ideal for corporate websites and user interfaces.
- #4169e1
A vibrant blue, useful as an accent color to bring excitement and enhance user experience.
Applications
Web Design for Corporate Sites
Chathams Blue offers a sophisticated and calming presence, making it a great fit for creating a professional and trustworthy atmosphere. In web development, it's ideal for backgrounds, headers, and footers where you want to establish a sense of stability and competence. It pairs exceptionally well with neutral colors like whites, grays, and even light yellows, allowing key content to stand out. When incorporated into UI elements such as buttons or progress bars, it subtly guides the user without being visually overwhelming. Its understated elegance also means it's less likely to cause visual fatigue, contributing to a more enjoyable user experience.
Interior Design for Relaxation
In interior design, Chathams Blue can be employed to bring a sense of tranquility and depth to a room. Using it on walls, particularly in bedrooms or studies, can foster a calming environment conducive to relaxation and focus. The color's natural affinity with nautical themes also makes it suitable for coastal-inspired decor. Combining it with lighter wood tones, natural fabrics, and subtle pops of complementary colors, like muted oranges or yellows, can create a balanced and inviting space. It is a great alternative to using grey or beige and it provides a colorful yet subtle base.
Fashion Design for a Professional Wardrobe
In the realm of fashion, Chathams Blue acts as a versatile and sophisticated neutral. It can be used as a base color for outfits, providing a classy yet understated look. It is a great alternative to black or navy blue. When paired with brighter colors like coral, mustard yellow, or even a deep red, it creates a striking contrast that adds visual interest. Chathams Blue is suitable for both formal and casual wear, making it a staple for creating diverse wardrobes. It exudes confidence without being ostentatious, thus is a perfect choice for professional settings.