Pickled Bluewood
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #284E5E represents a dark, desaturated shade of blue-green, often referred to as "Pickled Bluewood." It is composed of 15.7% red, 30.6% green, and 36.9% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to (40, 78, 94). The CMYK representation is (57, 17, 0, 63), indicating the percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks required to reproduce the color in print. With a hue of 200 degrees, a saturation of 40%, and a lightness of 26.3%, #284E5E presents a muted and cool tone. Its subdued nature makes it well-suited for applications where a calming or sophisticated aesthetic is desired.
The hex color #284E5E, also known as Pickled Bluewood, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance value of 0.13 means it may not provide sufficient contrast against a white or light-colored background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #284E5E for text on a white background would likely fail these contrast tests, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #284E5E with a much lighter color for text, or using it sparingly for decorative elements where legibility is not critical. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the specific contrast ratio and determine suitable pairings. For scenarios where contrast is paramount, explore alternative colors with higher luminance values, or apply CSS filters to lighten the color dynamically.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #547080
A lighter shade of blue-gray that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #34626c
A slightly desaturated teal that offers a more vibrant alternative while still complementing the original color.
- #808080
A neutral gray which works nicely as background color, making text easier to read.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #284E5E can be utilized as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can also be used for button backgrounds or subtle accents, especially when paired with complementary or contrasting colors for improved visual interest and user experience. When applying it to user interface elements such as text, ensure adequate contrast with the background to adhere to accessibility guidelines. This can be achieved by using a light-colored text for readability. Its somewhat desaturated nature makes it suitable for designs where a sense of calm and professionality is needed.
Interior Design
In interior design, #284E5E evokes feelings of tranquility and stability, making it a good choice for accent walls in bedrooms or living spaces. It can also be utilized in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories to add a touch of subdued elegance to a room. When combined with natural wood tones or metallic accents, it creates a balanced and harmonious environment. This color can be integrated into a room's lighting to enhance the ambient mood. In more modern settings, it is a good match with sharp forms and minimalistic art.
Fashion
In fashion, Pickled Bluewood can be used for elegant garments, such as evening dresses or formal wear, offering a refined and subtle aesthetic. It is also suitable for accessories like scarves or handbags, adding a touch of sophistication to an outfit. This color pairs well with neutral tones like beige or gray, as well as bolder colors like mustard yellow or deep red, allowing for versatile styling options. This color will not be out of style quickly, making it a good choice for a capsule wardrobe.