Chambray
General Information about #2A5B8A
The hexadecimal color #2A5B8A, commonly referred to as Chambray, is a muted, mid-tone blue with a subtle grayish undertone. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it consists of 16.47% red, 35.69% green, and 54.12% blue. This color is frequently associated with calmness, stability, and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various design applications. Chambray is part of the broader blue color family, known for its versatility and widespread appeal. Its CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) values are 0.69, 0.34, 0.00, 0.46, indicating a significant cyan component that contributes to its bluish hue. The color derives its name from the chambray fabric, a plain-weave cloth with a colored warp and a white weft, giving it a slightly heathered appearance.
The color #2A5B8A, also known as Chambray, presents a moderate level of accessibility concerns that need to be addressed carefully in web design. Its contrast ratio against a white background is not high enough to meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text (AA compliance). Therefore, it's advisable to use it with larger text sizes where the contrast requirements are slightly relaxed, or ideally pair it with a lighter background color to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure sufficient contrast in the hover and focus states to provide clear feedback to users. Providing alternative text descriptions for images that use this color extensively is also crucial for visually impaired users relying on screen readers. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools is recommended to validate compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability and accessibility.
- #d3d3d3
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to complement Chambray, ensuring sufficient contrast for text and elements.
- #204a6f
A slightly darker blue which can be used to provide a stronger visual element
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chambray (#2A5B8A) can be effectively employed as a secondary color to add depth and sophistication to the overall palette. Its muted tone allows it to serve as a background for sections or to highlight specific UI elements without overwhelming the user. It works exceptionally well in creating a calm and professional atmosphere, making it suitable for corporate websites, educational platforms, or portfolio sites. When combined with lighter accents, it can guide the user's eye and improve the visual hierarchy. Chambray should be used carefully with considerations of accessibility, ensuring sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements for optimal user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray brings a sense of tranquility and understated elegance to any space. Its resemblance to denim makes it a versatile choice for walls, upholstery, or accent pieces. Chambray pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, and white, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. It also complements natural materials such as wood and stone, adding a touch of sophistication to rustic or minimalist designs. Consider using it in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices to promote relaxation and focus. Incorporating textures like linen or velvet can further enhance the depth and richness of this color in interior settings.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Chambray offers a versatile and stylish option for creating timeless and sophisticated looks. Evoking the classic denim fabric, this hue lends itself well to both casual and semi-formal attire. Chambray-colored shirts, dresses, and skirts can be easily paired with neutral accessories and complementary colors such as tan, white, or even pops of coral or mustard for a touch of vibrancy. Its muted tone makes it an excellent choice for layering, allowing for a variety of textures and patterns to be incorporated without clashing. Chambray garments can be elevated with tailored cuts and quality fabrics, making them suitable for both everyday wear and more refined occasions.