Chambray
General Information about Chambray (#2B4F89)
Chambray, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2B4F89, is a muted, medium-dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. It is reminiscent of the chambray fabric, a lightweight cotton material often used in shirts and workwear. In the RGB color model, Chambray consists of 17.1% red, 31% green, and 53.7% blue. In the CMYK color model, it comprises 68.1% cyan, 42.4% magenta, 0% yellow, and 46.3% black. This color's hex code translates to a specific wavelength of light, which our eyes perceive as a particular shade of blue. Chambray is often associated with professionalism, reliability, and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various design applications.
The color #2B4F89, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility challenges due to its relatively low contrast against light backgrounds. For text elements, it's crucial to ensure a sufficient contrast ratio, ideally meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA or AAA 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). When using Chambray for interactive elements like buttons or links, providing clear visual cues such as borders, underlines, or changes in color on hover or focus is essential. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools can help determine if the contrast is sufficient for users with visual impairments. Consider offering alternative color schemes to accommodate users with different needs. Furthermore, avoid using color alone to convey important information; always provide text labels or other visual indicators.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3b5998
A slightly lighter shade of blue can improve readability and contrast, especially against white backgrounds.
- #232b59
A deeper blue can provide a stronger visual impact and better contrast, particularly in UI elements.
- #3b5bbb
A brighter, more vibrant blue which will improve the contrast between the element and the background.
Applications
Web Design
Chambray is often used in web design to evoke a sense of trust, stability, and professionalism. Its calming nature makes it suitable for websites related to finance, healthcare, or education. It can be used as a primary color for backgrounds, headers, or call-to-action buttons to create a clean and reliable aesthetic. Chambray also pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, allowing for a sophisticated and modern design. In user interfaces, it can be utilized for subtle accents, icons, or progress bars to provide visual cues without being overly distracting. Its versatility makes it a valuable asset for creating accessible and user-friendly websites.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray can create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices, providing a sense of tranquility and focus. It can be used as a wall color, accent furniture, or decorative accessories to add a touch of sophistication and understated elegance. Chambray pairs well with natural materials like wood, linen, and cotton, enhancing its calming effect. It can also be combined with brighter accent colors like coral, yellow, or green to create a more vibrant and playful space. The color's neutrality makes it a versatile choice for various design styles, from coastal to contemporary.
Fashion
In fashion, Chambray offers a versatile and classic option that can be dressed up or down. It's often used in shirts, dresses, and outerwear, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed look. Chambray can be paired with a variety of colors and textures, making it a wardrobe staple. It looks great with denim, leather, and knitwear, allowing for endless styling possibilities. Accessorize with contrasting colors like red, orange, or yellow to add a pop of interest. The understated elegance of Chambray makes it a timeless choice for both casual and formal occasions, suitable for various body types and personal styles.