Chambray
General Information
The hex color #285082, also known as Chambray, is a dark, muted shade of blue, evoking feelings of calmness, stability, and professionalism. It belongs to the blue color family and possesses a subtle depth that makes it a versatile choice for various applications. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.1% red, 31.4% green, and 51% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.68, 0.38, 0.00, 0.49, indicating the proportions of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks required to reproduce the color in print. The color is named after Chambray fabric, a lightweight cotton fabric often used for shirts, which shares a similar color profile. It’s often associated with corporate branding, technology, and serene environments.
The color #285082, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility considerations, particularly for text-based content. With a relatively low luminance, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against background colors, especially white or very light hues. According to WCAG guidelines, 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) to meet AA conformance. When using Chambray for text, consider pairing it with a very light color like #F0F8FF (AliceBlue) or #FFFFFF (White) for optimal readability. For graphical elements and user interface components, a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 is required. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help verify contrast ratios. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey meaning; supplement color cues with text labels or other visual indicators to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #346886
A slightly lighter blue that provides a softer feel while still maintaining a professional appearance.
- #3066BE
A more vibrant blue alternative, ideal for drawing attention to key elements and adding a touch of energy.
- #1E3F66
A dark navy blue alternative, perfect for creating a sense of depth and sophistication in designs that call for a darker, more muted tone.
Applications
Website Headers and Navigation
Chambray, with its calming and professional demeanor, is an excellent choice for website headers and navigation bars. Its dark hue ensures good readability for menu items and titles, while its blue tone projects trustworthiness and stability. Pair it with lighter background colors and contrasting text to enhance the user experience and ensure accessibility. For example, using Chambray as the primary color for a corporate website can instill a sense of confidence in visitors.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Chambray can create a soothing and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well as an accent color for walls or furniture, complementing neutral tones like beige, gray, or white. Its subtle blue hue evokes a sense of tranquility, making it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Consider using Chambray for throw pillows, curtains, or area rugs to add a touch of understated elegance to your living space.
Fashion Apparel
Chambray's versatility extends to fashion, where it can be used to create both casual and formal looks. It is a classic color for shirts and dresses, offering a timeless appeal. When paired with darker colors, it creates a more formal appearance, while lighter colors evoke a more relaxed vibe. Accessorize with complementary colors like mustard yellow or burnt orange to add visual interest and personality to your outfit.