Chambray
General Information about Chambray (#2E4E86)
The hex color #2E4E86, commonly referred to as Chambray, is a dark shade of blue falling within the blue color family. It is characterized by its muted tone, which lends a sense of calmness and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #2E4E86 is composed of 18.04% red, 30.59% green, and 52.55% blue. This color is frequently used in web design, graphic design, and interior decoration to create a professional and trustworthy appearance. Chambray's subtle nature makes it an excellent choice for backgrounds, text, and accent elements. Its versatility allows it to be effectively paired with both warm and cool colors. In CMYK, its values are 66% cyan, 42% magenta, 0% yellow, and 47% black.
The color #2E4E86, also known as Chambray, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white is approximately 3.8:1, which is below the WCAG's recommended 4.5:1 for normal text. Therefore, using #2E4E86 for body text on a white background may be difficult for users with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with lighter shades of gray or off-white to increase contrast. When used for larger text elements or graphical components, the contrast requirements are slightly more lenient (3:1), but it's still crucial to assess readability. Ensure sufficient contrast by using tools that evaluate color combinations. Also, provide alternative cues beyond color alone, such as text labels or icons, to convey information, especially for users who are colorblind. For interactive elements like buttons, provide hover and focus states with distinct visual changes to ensure usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #587aa3
A lighter shade offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility for users with visual impairments.
- #1a3263
A darker shade provides a stronger visual presence and can be useful for highlighting key elements on a page or in a design.
- #808080
A neutral grey that provides contrast while maintaining a sense of harmony and balance.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Chambray (#2E4E86) is well-suited for crafting websites for businesses seeking to convey trustworthiness and stability. Its subdued nature makes it an excellent choice for backgrounds, headers, and accent elements. When integrated into a user interface, Chambray reduces visual fatigue, creating a pleasant browsing experience. It pairs harmoniously with lighter neutral colors, such as off-white or light gray, to establish a clean and professional aesthetic. This color is particularly effective in the finance, healthcare, and education sectors, where it can imbue a sense of reliability and competence.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray (#2E4E86) can be employed to evoke a sense of serenity and sophistication within a space. It is commonly used on walls in bedrooms or living rooms to create a calming atmosphere. Furthermore, this color can be incorporated into furniture upholstery or accent pieces, such as throw pillows or curtains. Chambray pairs effectively with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the organic feel of a room. Its subtle hue makes it versatile for various design styles, from modern minimalist to traditional.
Fashion Design
In fashion design, Chambray (#2E4E86) is a versatile color choice suitable for creating timeless and elegant apparel. It is often used in casual wear, such as shirts, dresses, and trousers, offering a refined alternative to traditional blue denim. Chambray complements a wide range of skin tones and can be easily paired with other colors, including neutrals, pastels, and jewel tones. This color is also appropriate for more formal attire, such as blazers or skirts, providing a touch of understated sophistication.