Chambray
General Information about Chambray
The hex color #314983, commonly known as Chambray, is a deep shade of blue with a subdued and sophisticated feel. It resides in the blue color family but possesses a certain calmness due to its moderate saturation and brightness. This color is often associated with tranquility, stability, and trustworthiness. In color theory, Chambray can be described as a tertiary color, lying between blue and violet. Its hexadecimal code indicates a combination of red (31), green (49), and blue (83) components in the RGB color model. This precise mixture creates a color that is neither overly vibrant nor overly dark, making it versatile for a variety of applications. The color is named after the fabric Chambray which is a plain-weave fabric with a colored warp yarn and a white weft yarn, typically made of cotton or linen.
The color #314983, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its relatively low luminance value of approximately 0.14 means that it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. When used as a background color, it's essential to pair it with a light foreground color such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very light gray to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Chambray may not meet these criteria with many mid-tone colors. Therefore, thorough testing with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure compliance and provide an inclusive experience for users with visual impairments. Using this color for purely decorative elements is acceptable, but avoid using it for crucial user interface elements without proper contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
Chambray, with its muted blue tone, lends itself well to website backgrounds, particularly for sites aiming for a professional and calming aesthetic. It's suitable for headers and footers where a subtle color is desired without being too distracting. In UI design, it can be used for secondary buttons or less prominent interface elements. The color evokes a sense of trust and stability, making it ideal for websites in the finance, education, and healthcare sectors. It also works well with minimalist layouts, allowing content to take center stage while providing a cohesive and visually appealing background.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray can be used for walls in bedrooms or studies to create a relaxing atmosphere. It complements natural wood tones and pairs well with lighter furniture. The color can be incorporated through textiles such as curtains, cushions, or throws to add a touch of sophistication. It works especially well in rooms with plenty of natural light, enhancing the sense of space and airiness. Chambray can also be used in nurseries, providing a calming and gender-neutral color scheme.
Fashion and Branding
Chambray is often used in fashion for casual wear such as shirts, dresses, and jeans. It’s a versatile color that can be dressed up or down. It combines well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, as well as with brighter accent colors. In graphic design, Chambray can be used for branding materials, logos, and marketing collateral, particularly for companies that want to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism. Its calming nature makes it a good choice for health and wellness brands.