Astronaut
General Information about #242D74
The hex color #242D74, often referred to as "Astronaut", is a deep shade of blue-violet. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 14.12% red, 17.65% green, and 45.49% blue. This color is commonly associated with feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. It is often used in designs to evoke a sense of trust, stability, and intelligence. In color psychology, dark blues are also linked to professionalism and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and formal settings. The color's low saturation and high blue component contribute to its soothing and contemplative qualities, making it versatile for various applications from web design to interior decoration. Its hexadecimal nature allows for precise color representation across digital platforms, making it a reliable choice for designers and developers.
The hex color #242D74, also known as Astronaut, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires careful consideration of the background color to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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. This dark shade of blue often necessitates the use of very light colors like white or pale yellow for optimal contrast. Furthermore, when used in interactive elements such as buttons or links, it's crucial to provide additional visual cues, such as underlines or icons, to ensure that users with visual impairments can easily identify and interact with these elements. Proper testing with accessibility tools is recommended to validate the color's usability across different user groups.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter blue that offers better contrast against darker backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to provide a more balanced contrast with other elements.
- #008080
A vibrant teal that provides a contrasting accent color while complementing blue tones.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #242D74 can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It's often employed for navigation bars, headers, or backgrounds to establish a strong visual hierarchy. Its dark nature makes it suitable for dark mode designs, providing a comfortable viewing experience in low-light environments. The color can also be paired with brighter accent colors to create a visually appealing contrast and draw attention to key elements, enhancing the overall user interface and user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #242D74 can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies where a sense of tranquility is desired. The color can be incorporated through wall paint, furniture, or decorative accessories. It pairs well with lighter neutrals like beige or gray, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver, to create a balanced and visually appealing space. The depth of the color adds a touch of elegance and refinement to any room.
Fashion
In fashion, #242D74 can be utilized to create classic and elegant looks. It can be used for evening wear, business attire, or casual outfits. This color can be paired with neutral tones or with vibrant colors to create an eye-catching contrast. As it conveys professionalism and confidence, it's a great pick for power suits or elegant dresses. Accessorizing with metallic jewelry or vibrant scarves will lift the look, adding a pop of interest and individual style.