Chambray
General Information about Chambray
The hexadecimal color #274D8D, also known as Chambray, is a dark shade of blue that exudes sophistication and tranquility. It belongs to the blue color family and possesses a relatively low saturation, giving it a muted and calming appearance. In the RGB color model, Chambray is composed of 15.29% red, 30.2% green, and 55.3% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.72, 0.45, 0.0, and 0.45. Chambray derives its name from a lightweight plain-weave fabric that is typically blue in color, similar to denim but lighter in weight and construction. This color is often associated with professionalism, trust, and stability, making it a popular choice for branding and design. Its understated elegance lends itself well to a variety of applications.
The color #274D8D, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its relatively low luminance necessitates careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text against a background color. Using white text (e.g., #FFFFFF) on a Chambray background generally provides acceptable contrast. However, lighter shades of gray or colors closer to Chambray in value will likely fail accessibility standards. It's crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to guarantee readability for users with visual impairments. Considering alternative, lighter background colors or employing Chambray as an accent color can improve overall accessibility.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chambray can be effectively used for headers, navigation bars, or as a subtle background accent. Its calming and professional appearance makes it suitable for corporate websites, educational platforms, and online portfolios. For instance, a website for a financial consulting firm might use Chambray as the primary color for its navigation bar and call-to-action buttons, creating a sense of trust and reliability. The color pairs well with white or light gray text, ensuring readability and a clean user experience. Furthermore, consider incorporating Chambray into website illustrations and icons to maintain visual consistency.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray can be used to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. It is an excellent choice for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Consider painting an accent wall in Chambray and pairing it with neutral-colored furniture and light wood accents. Incorporating textiles in complementary colors, such as mustard yellow or coral, can add visual interest and prevent the space from feeling too monotonous. Chambray also works well in nurseries, creating a calming and peaceful environment for infants.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Chambray is often seen in casual wear, particularly in shirts and dresses. Its versatility allows it to be paired with various colors and styles, making it a popular choice for everyday outfits. A Chambray shirt can be effortlessly combined with white jeans for a classic summer look or dressed up with a blazer for a more polished ensemble. The color is also well-suited for accessories such as scarves, handbags, and hats, adding a touch of understated elegance to any outfit. Chambray's neutral undertones make it a flattering choice for a wide range of skin tones.