Chambray
General Information about Chambray (#304A84)
Chambray, represented by the hexadecimal color code #304A84, is a medium-dark shade of blue with a slightly grayish undertone. It belongs to the broader family of blue hues, evoking a sense of calm, stability, and trustworthiness. The color's name, Chambray, is derived from the lightweight, plain-weave fabric of the same name, often used for shirts and casual wear. In the RGB color model, #304A84 consists of 18.82% red, 29.02% green, and 51.76% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 63.6% cyan, 43.3% magenta, 0% yellow, and 48.2% black. This color is often associated with professionalism, reliability, and a sense of understated elegance, making it a popular choice in various design applications.
The color #304A84, also known as Chambray, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white text is relatively low, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors such as white or very light grays. Alternatively, for dark backgrounds, explore lighter shades of blues or yellows to ensure sufficient contrast. It's also crucial to test color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools to comply with WCAG guidelines. Using a larger font size or adding text shadows can further enhance readability. Moreover, it is advisable to avoid using this color for critical interactive elements without proper contrast, as it may hinder usability for individuals with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #587bbd
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white text, improving readability and accessibility for a wider range of users.
- #808080
A neutral gray that provides a safe and accessible option for text and backgrounds, ensuring clarity and legibility.
- #a6bce3
A brighter, pastel blue that can be used as a background color to create a calm and inviting atmosphere, while still maintaining sufficient contrast with darker text.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Chambray (#304A84) can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites aiming for a professional or corporate aesthetic. It pairs well with white or light gray text, although ensuring sufficient contrast is essential for accessibility. It's often used in header sections, navigation bars, or as a subtle accent color to maintain a balanced visual hierarchy. Furthermore, Chambray can be incorporated into button designs or interactive elements to add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the user interface. Its calming hue makes it suitable for websites related to finance, education, or healthcare.
Fashion
In fashion, Chambray translates to a versatile color option for both casual and semi-formal attire. Its muted blue tone evokes a sense of calm and understated elegance, making it suitable for shirts, dresses, and even outerwear. Chambray fabric, characterized by its plain weave construction, is a popular choice for summer clothing due to its breathability and lightweight feel. This color pairs well with neutrals such as white, beige, and gray, as well as earthy tones like olive green and tan. Accessorizing with silver or gold jewelry can further elevate the look.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray acts as a soothing and versatile color for creating a relaxing atmosphere in various spaces. It can be applied to walls, upholstery, or decorative accents to introduce a touch of serenity and sophistication. Chambray pairs beautifully with natural materials such as wood, stone, and linen, enhancing the sense of tranquility. Consider using it in bedrooms, living rooms, or bathrooms to promote a sense of calmness and well-being. Complementary colors such as soft yellows or warm grays can add visual interest and balance to the overall design.