Chambray
General Information about Chambray
The hexadecimal color #30508B, commonly known as Chambray, is a dark shade of blue falling within the blue color family. It is composed of 18.82% red, 31.37% green, and 54.51% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a moderate balance of these primary colors, resulting in its distinct, muted appearance. Chambray is frequently associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. In color psychology, blue tones are often linked to trust, intelligence, and efficiency, making it a popular choice in corporate branding and designs. Its subtle elegance also makes it suitable for various applications, ranging from web design to fashion and interior decor. The color name "Chambray" is derived from a type of woven fabric, which mirrors the color's soft, textured appearance.
The color #30508B, also known as Chambray, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio with pure white (#FFFFFF) is approximately 3.9:1, which falls short of the WCAG's AA standard of 4.5:1 for normal text. This means users with moderate visual impairments may find it difficult to read text rendered in this color against a white background. To improve accessibility, designers should consider using a lighter shade of the color or opting for darker text on a Chambray background. When paired with black (#000000), the contrast ratio improves significantly, exceeding the WCAG's AAA standard for enhanced accessibility. Therefore, using white text sparingly or increasing the font size and weight can also mitigate readability issues and help ensure that content is accessible to a wider audience, including those with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #466399
A slightly lighter shade, #466399, offers improved contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1a3466
A darker shade, #1A3466, provides better readability as text on light backgrounds and maintains a similar cool tone.
- #4682b4
Steel Blue (#4682B4) offers a similar feel but is more vibrant and offers great contrast on white backgrounds.
Applications
Website Design
Chambray, with its calming and sophisticated nature, is well-suited for website backgrounds in the tech and corporate sectors. It evokes a sense of professionalism and trust, making it ideal for companies aiming to establish credibility online. Moreover, it works effectively for highlighting call-to-action buttons and banners. When used as a header or footer background, Chambray provides a visually pleasing contrast that is neither too stark nor too overpowering, ensuring readability and a positive user experience. Using it in combination with white and gray elements can produce a very modern and clean design.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Chambray lends itself to creating versatile and stylish outfits. This color works exceptionally well for casual wear, such as shirts, dresses, and lightweight jackets. Its subtle and understated tone makes it a good alternative to traditional denim, providing a softer and more refined look. Accessorizing with complementary colors like coral or mustard yellow can enhance the overall appeal of the outfit. Also, its neutrality allows it to be paired with bolder colors, offering ample opportunities for creating diverse and fashionable looks.
Interior Design
Chambray can bring a touch of sophistication to interior spaces. This hue is fantastic for bedrooms and living rooms. Use it as an accent wall paint color for a calming effect or utilize it in furniture upholstery for a touch of elegance. When used alongside natural materials such as wood or stone, Chambray creates a harmonious and inviting environment. It complements neutral color palettes beautifully, providing a subtle hint of color without being overwhelming. Its versatility makes it a great choice for various decor styles, from modern to traditional.