Chambray
General Information about Chambray
The hexadecimal color code #284B8F represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Chambray. It is composed of 15.7% red, 29.4% green, and 56.1% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 40 red, 75 green, and 143 blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 72% cyan, 47% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. Chambray is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. The color is frequently used in corporate branding, website design, and interior decor to evoke a sense of professionalism and reliability. Its relatively low saturation makes it easy on the eyes and suitable for extended viewing, making it a popular choice for backgrounds and text.
The color #284B8F, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its relatively low contrast against lighter backgrounds. When used for text, it's crucial to ensure that the foreground-to-background contrast ratio meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Insufficient contrast can make it difficult for users with visual impairments to read the content. To improve accessibility, consider pairing Chambray with much lighter colors for text or using it sparingly for decorative elements. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards. Also, ensure sufficient color contrast when using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, so users can easily identify and interact with them.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #6082b6
A lighter blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #00245e
A darker blue which can be used as a background color when #284B8F is used as a foreground color to increase contrast.
- #a9a9a9
A neutral gray that pairs well with darker blues while offering good readability as text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chambray (#284B8F) can be effectively used for website headers or navigation bars to create a calming and professional aesthetic. Its depth allows for clear separation of page sections without being overly jarring. When implementing this color, consider pairing it with lighter shades of gray or beige to establish a balanced and visually pleasing contrast. Employing Chambray as a background for call-to-action buttons, combined with white or very light text, can draw attention and encourage user engagement. Moreover, its subtle sophistication makes it suitable for websites in the corporate, educational, or healthcare sectors.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray offers versatility for creating a serene and elegant space. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms or living rooms as an accent wall color, providing a calming backdrop for relaxation. Complementing Chambray with natural wood tones, such as oak or walnut, can enhance the warmth and overall appeal of the room. Consider using this color in upholstery, such as sofas or armchairs, to introduce a subtle yet sophisticated element. Accessorizing with pops of brighter colors, like mustard yellow or coral, can create visual interest and prevent the space from feeling monotonous.
Fashion
In fashion, Chambray can be used in various applications such as dress shirts, casual pants, and even outerwear. Its muted tone makes it a versatile option that can be paired with a wide range of other colors and styles. A Chambray shirt can be dressed up with chinos and a blazer for a smart-casual look or dressed down with jeans for a more relaxed style. As an outerwear option, a Chambray jacket can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. When selecting accessories, consider colors like brown, beige, or even pops of brighter colors to complement the Chambray.