Pickled Bluewood
General Information
#283E57, also known as Pickled Bluewood, is a dark shade of blue-gray. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 24.31% green, and 34.12% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 52.83% cyan, 28.75% magenta, 0% yellow, and 65.88% black. Its hexadecimal representation is #283E57. This color falls under the broader category of cool colors, often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and professionalism. Due to its muted nature, it's considered a versatile color that can be used in various design applications. It is often used in corporate branding, web design, and interior design to create a sophisticated and trustworthy atmosphere. The color's low saturation makes it easy on the eyes, making it a good choice for backgrounds or large blocks of text.
The color #283E57, a dark desaturated blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance makes it difficult to read text rendered in this color against a white background. To ensure readability, it's crucial to use a text color with sufficient contrast. A light color, such as a pale yellow or a very light gray, would provide better contrast and improve legibility. 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. Testing the color combination with an accessibility checker is highly recommended to confirm compliance. Additionally, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; always pair it with other cues like icons or labels to ensure accessibility for users with visual impairments or color blindness. Consider providing alternative color schemes for users who may have difficulty perceiving the default colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #345678
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color, complementing #283E57 when used as a text color.
- #4169e1
A vibrant blue that can be used for accents, providing a pop of color against the muted #283E57.
Applications
Corporate Branding
This color evokes a sense of professionalism and reliability, making it suitable for corporate websites and branding materials. Its dark, muted tone can be used for backgrounds, headers, or text elements to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel. It can also be used for charts and graphs in business presentations. In user interface design, #283E57 can be effectively used for navigation menus, button backgrounds, or other interactive elements, providing a visually appealing and user-friendly experience. The color's calming effect makes it a good choice for websites or applications where users spend extended periods of time.
Interior Design
In interior design, this color can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. It can be used as a wall color, accent color, or for furniture upholstery. Pair it with warm neutrals and natural materials to create a balanced and inviting space. The color's versatility allows it to blend seamlessly with various design styles, from modern to traditional, adding a touch of elegance and tranquility to any room. Consider using it in combination with lighter colors to brighten up the space and prevent it from feeling too dark.
Fashion
This color's understated elegance makes it suitable for formal wear or accessories. It pairs well with other neutral colors and can be used to create a sophisticated and polished look. For men, it can be used for suits, ties, or dress shirts. For women, it can be used for dresses, skirts, or blouses. In accessories, it can be used for handbags, shoes, or jewelry. Consider using it as a base color and adding pops of brighter colors for a more modern and stylish look. The color's versatility makes it a great choice for creating a timeless and classic wardrobe.