Chambray
General Information about Chambray (#304387)
Chambray, represented by the hex code #304387, is a muted, medium-dark shade of blue with a hint of purple. It is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. The color name 'Chambray' is derived from a type of woven fabric known for its plain weave and lightly colored warp and weft threads, resulting in a subtly textured appearance. In the RGB color model, Chambray is composed of 19.22% red, 26.27% green, and 52.94% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 64% cyan, 51% magenta, 0% yellow, and 47% black. This color finds applications in various fields, including web design, fashion, and interior decoration, where its understated elegance and versatility are highly valued.
The hex color #304387, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its relatively low luminance value of 16 means that it may not provide sufficient contrast when used as text against a white background, or as a background for light-colored text. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Chambray falls short of these recommendations with standard font sizes. To improve accessibility, consider using Chambray with lighter text colors like white or very light grays, or pair it with darker background colors to increase the contrast ratio. Also, avoid using it for essential UI elements where clear visibility is crucial. Providing alternative text or visual cues can further enhance the accessibility of content using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #485ca7
A slightly lighter shade offers improved contrast against dark backgrounds while maintaining a similar cool, muted tone.
- #202d5e
A darker shade can be used to provide better contrast when Chambray is used as a background color.
- #405590
A close color with better accesibility as text on white backgrounds
Applications
Professional Website Background
In web design, Chambray can be effectively used for creating a calm and professional aesthetic. It is suitable for backgrounds, headers, or secondary text elements. For example, a website for a financial consulting firm might use Chambray as a background color to evoke trust and stability. The subdued nature of the color prevents it from being too distracting, allowing the content to remain the primary focus. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, as well as accent colors like gold or muted orange. However, due to accessibility considerations, it's best to avoid using Chambray as the primary text color on a white background.
Casual Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Chambray is a versatile color that can be used in various clothing items and accessories. It is reminiscent of denim, making it suitable for casual wear like shirts, dresses, and jackets. Chambray-colored accessories, such as scarves or handbags, can add a touch of understated elegance to an outfit. The color's neutrality allows it to be easily paired with other colors, from bold primaries to muted earth tones. Chambray is also a popular choice for children's clothing due to its soft and calming appearance. Its use extends beyond apparel to footwear, where it can be seen in sneakers and casual shoes.
Interior Design Accent Color
Chambray's calming and sophisticated nature makes it well-suited for interior design applications, particularly in bedrooms or living rooms. It can be used as a wall color to create a serene atmosphere or as an accent color in furniture or textiles. For example, Chambray-colored throw pillows or blankets can add a touch of elegance to a living room sofa. In a bedroom, Chambray curtains or bedding can create a relaxing and restful environment. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and linen, as well as metallic accents like silver or gold. Consider using Chambray in spaces where a sense of tranquility is desired.