Chambray
General Information about Chambray (#2E478D)
The color #2E478D, commonly known as Chambray, is a deep, muted shade of blue with subtle grey undertones. It evokes feelings of calmness, sophistication, and reliability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 18.04% red, 27.84% green, and 55.29% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 67% cyan, 50% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45% black. Chambray's hex code is #2E478D, and its closest web-safe color is often considered to be a slightly lighter or darker shade of blue. This color is frequently used in various design contexts, ranging from web development to fashion and interior design, where its versatility and calming effect make it a popular choice for creating aesthetically pleasing and balanced compositions. The origin of the name "Chambray" comes from a type of cloth, known for its plain weave and light blue color.
The color #2E478D, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively dark hue means that careful attention must be paid to the contrast ratio when pairing it with text or other foreground elements. 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 ensure readability for users with visual impairments. When using Chambray as a background, opt for light-colored text such as white or a very pale yellow to meet these contrast requirements. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can be invaluable for verifying compliance. Also, avoid using color alone to convey important information; supplement color cues with text labels or icons to ensure that all users, including those with color vision deficiencies, can understand the content. For links, consider using underlines or other visual cues in addition to color to differentiate them from surrounding text.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Navigation
Chambray (#2E478D) can be a great choice for designing website headers and navigation bars. Its deep, calming tone evokes a sense of trust and stability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, education, or healthcare. Pair it with a clean, sans-serif font and plenty of white space to create a professional and user-friendly interface. Also, consider using it for call-to-action buttons, highlighting important links, or creating a subtle background gradient. To achieve a balanced visual hierarchy, use complementary colors for secondary elements and interactive components.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Chambray serves as an excellent accent color for creating a sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Use it on walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative pillows to add depth and visual interest. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige for a calming effect, or combine it with brighter shades like coral or mustard yellow for a more vibrant and playful look. Chambray also complements natural materials like wood, stone, and linen, making it a versatile choice for various design styles.
Fashion Apparel
Chambray is frequently used in fashion design, particularly for casual and workwear attire. As the name suggests, it resembles the color of chambray fabric, offering a timeless and versatile appeal. Use it for shirts, dresses, skirts, or trousers to create a relaxed yet stylish look. It pairs well with denim, khakis, and other neutral-colored garments. Accessorize with brown leather belts, silver jewelry, or colorful scarves to add personal flair. In makeup, Chambray can be used as an eyeshadow shade for creating a soft and smoky eye effect.