Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue (#234F75)
Chathams Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #234F75, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility, stability, and sophistication. It belongs to the family of blue hues, which are often associated with trustworthiness, intelligence, and calmness. In color theory, Chathams Blue is a tertiary color, created by mixing a primary color (blue) with a secondary color (in this case, a blend leading towards a muted tone). Its RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values are R:35, G:79, B:117. The color is named after the Chatham Islands, suggesting a connection to oceanic or natural themes. It's a versatile color, often used in design to convey a sense of depth and reliability. Its CMYK values are C:70, M:32, Y:0, K:54.
The hex color #234F75, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its relatively low luminance value means that text needs to be a light color to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. When using #234F75, ensure to pair it with colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays to meet these standards. Testing with accessibility tools is crucial to verify compliance. Avoid using it with darker text colors, as it can make the content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Consider the needs of colorblind users and provide alternative cues where color is used to convey information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #38618c
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast with darker text, making it more versatile for various design elements.
- #1a3857
A darker shade that provides a strong, grounding presence, suitable for backgrounds when paired with light text.
- #4f6a84
A desaturated version of Chathams Blue, offering a calmer and more neutral feel, ideal for subtle UI elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chathams Blue can be utilized for header backgrounds or call-to-action buttons to draw attention without being overly aggressive. Its calm nature complements professional or corporate websites, lending a sense of trustworthiness and stability. This color can also be effective in creating visually appealing charts and graphs, where clarity and readability are paramount.
Interior Design
Within interior design, Chathams Blue works effectively as an accent wall color in bedrooms or studies, promoting a sense of tranquility and focus. It pairs well with neutral tones like beige or light gray, and can be complemented by natural wood finishes. The color also suits upholstery for sofas or armchairs, providing a sophisticated yet comfortable feel to living spaces.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Chathams Blue can be featured in sophisticated dresses, tailored suits, or elegant accessories. It pairs nicely with silver or gold jewelry and can be complemented with neutral-colored shoes or handbags. The color exudes a sense of understated elegance, making it suitable for both professional and formal occasions.