Chambray
General Information about Chambray (#285187)
The hexadecimal color #285187, commonly known as Chambray, is a dark, muted shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 31.76% green, and 52.94% blue. When represented in the CMYK color model, it consists of 69.59% cyan, 40.13% magenta, 0% yellow, and 47.06% black. This color typically evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. It's often associated with professionalism and reliability, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and website design. Chambray derives its name from the fabric, which is a plain-weave cloth with colored warp and white filling threads. The color itself has a subtle depth and complexity, making it more visually appealing than a flat, simple blue. Its muted nature also makes it versatile for various applications across different design fields.
The hex color #285187, also known as Chambray, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white is approximately 3.8:1, which does not meet the WCAG AA standard of 4.5:1 for normal text. This means that users with moderate visual impairments may find it difficult to read text displayed in this color against a white background. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter background color to increase contrast or darkening the text color. When paired with black text, the contrast ratio improves slightly but still falls short of optimal accessibility. For larger text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), the contrast should be at least 3:1 according to WCAG AA standards, and Chambray fares better in these scenarios. However, it's crucial to test the color combination with accessibility tools to ensure compliance and optimal readability for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #386197
A slightly lighter shade provides improved contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability for a broader range of users.
- #184177
A darker shade offers better contrast when used as a background color with light text, improving accessibility for visually impaired users.
- #4871a7
A lighter and desaturated version, it maintains the aesthetic appeal while ensuring that text remains easily legible, especially for users with visual impairments or color blindness.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Chambray (#285187) is a versatile color choice for website backgrounds, particularly for professional or corporate sites. Its muted, cool tone evokes trust and stability, making it suitable for financial institutions, law firms, or educational platforms. When used as a background, it pairs well with lighter text colors such as white or pale yellow, creating a clean and readable interface. Avoid using it for crucial interactive elements like buttons, as the low contrast may hinder accessibility. Instead, use it to establish a calming and trustworthy visual foundation for your site's content.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray (#285187) can be incorporated to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of calmness is desired. Consider using it as an accent wall color, paired with lighter neutrals for the remaining walls. Upholstering furniture in Chambray fabrics can also add a touch of elegance to a living space. The color complements natural wood tones and metallic accents, allowing for a versatile and harmonious design scheme that fosters relaxation and focus.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Chambray (#285187) is an excellent choice for creating sophisticated and understated looks. It can be used for dresses, suits, or even accessories like scarves and handbags. This color pairs well with both neutral tones, such as beige and gray, and bolder colors like mustard yellow or deep red. Chambray garments are versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Its timeless appeal ensures that it remains a stylish and elegant choice in any wardrobe, offering a touch of refined sophistication.