Nile Blue
General Information about Nile Blue
The hex color #243B4A, also known as Nile Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue with a hint of green. It belongs to the family of cool colors and evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 14.12% red, 23.14% green, and 29.02% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 51.3% cyan, 20.2% magenta, 0% yellow, and 70.98% black. This color is often associated with trustworthiness, intellect, and efficiency, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional environments. The name 'Nile Blue' suggests a connection to the Nile River, reflecting the color's deep, watery quality. The color is often used to bring a sense of peace to any type of design. Its relatively low saturation makes it easy on the eyes.
The hex color #243B4A, also known as Nile Blue, presents some accessibility considerations, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its relatively low lightness value means that it requires careful selection of contrasting colors to ensure readability and usability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #243B4A as a background color, a light-colored text such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very light gray is recommended to meet accessibility standards. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the contrast ratio between #243B4A and other colors. For graphical elements and user interface components, ensuring a clear visual distinction is also important. The size of the element also affects the constrast ratio.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #344a5e
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast with darker text.
- #1a2a33
A darker shade that can be used for backgrounds, ensuring a modern and professional look.
- #3f5d73
A more vibrant alternative within the same color family that adds a touch of energy without sacrificing the overall sophisticated feel.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #243B4A can be used for website headers and footers to create a professional and calming aesthetic. It pairs well with neutral colors like whites and grays for a clean and modern look. Buttons and interactive elements can also utilize this color, but ensuring adequate contrast with text is important for accessibility. Furthermore, it is a great choice for data visualizations, where its subdued tone ensures that data stands out without being visually overwhelming. Its calm and subdued hue can also be used for backgrounds, especially in sections where prolonged reading is expected, as it reduces eye strain. This color is often seen in finance and corporate websites, communicating stability and reliability.
Interior Design
In interior design, #243B4A can be used as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or copper. For example, it can be used as the color of an accent wall or in furniture upholstery to add depth to a room. It is also commonly used in office spaces to promote concentration and focus. The use of textures, such as velvet or linen, can enhance the depth of this color, creating a richer, more inviting space. Its calming nature makes it suitable for creating a peaceful retreat within the home.
Fashion
Nile Blue offers a versatile and sophisticated option for fashion applications. Garments in this shade convey elegance and understated style, making them ideal for professional settings or smart-casual occasions. As an accent color, it can be used in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry, adding a touch of refinement to any ensemble. Nile Blue also pairs well with a variety of other colors, including neutrals like gray, cream, and black, as well as bolder shades like mustard yellow or deep burgundy. Its calming nature makes it an excellent choice for outerwear, creating a sense of peace and sophistication.