Chambray
General Information
Chambray, represented by the hexadecimal color code #31558E, is a medium-dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. It is named after the chambray fabric, a lightweight cotton cloth often used in shirt making. The color is composed of 19.2% red, 33.3% green, and 55.7% blue. In the RGB color model, these values indicate the intensity of each primary color component. Chambray resides in the blue-violet spectrum, offering a versatile and soothing visual appeal. Its muted tone makes it a popular choice for designs seeking to convey reliability and sophistication. Chambray is frequently used in web design, branding, and interior decor to create a sense of tranquility and dependability.
The color #31558E, also known as Chambray, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Chambray may require careful pairing with lighter background colors to achieve these ratios. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in verifying compliance. Additionally, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, to enhance usability for users with visual impairments. Sufficient spacing between elements can also improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4f759b
A slightly lighter shade of blue can improve readability and contrast, making it a more accessible option for text and user interface elements.
- #a9b7c6
A neutral gray provides a versatile background color that complements Chambray, offering a balanced and visually appealing design.
- #1f3a66
A darker blue can be used for text elements on a lighter background to achieve better contrast for people with visual impairments.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chambray (#31558E) is effective for creating a calm and trustworthy atmosphere. It's suitable for backgrounds, headers, and accent elements, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, or education, where conveying reliability is crucial. When combined with complementary colors or neutral tones, Chambray can enhance the overall user experience and create a professional look. Consider its use in buttons, navigation bars, and information panels to guide users and create a seamless visual journey. Because of its calming properties, it is also very suited for applications with a lot of content to keep the attention of the user.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chambray offers a serene and sophisticated palette, perfect for creating calming spaces. This color can be applied on walls in bedrooms or living areas to invoke tranquility and peace. It pairs beautifully with lighter neutrals like creams and grays for a classic, understated look. In furniture selection, Chambray can be used on upholstery to bring a touch of elegance without overpowering the room. It also works well as an accent color in decorative elements, such as throw pillows, curtains, or artwork, to add depth and interest. Overall it is a color that has an versatility that is unmatched.
Fashion
In fashion, Chambray mirrors its textile namesake, offering a versatile and comfortable aesthetic. This color is ideal for casual wear, such as shirts, dresses, and lightweight jackets, providing a relaxed yet stylish look. It can be effortlessly combined with denim, khakis, and other neutral hues to create various outfits. Chambray also complements accessories like scarves, hats, and handbags, adding a touch of sophistication. Its muted tone makes it suitable for both summer and winter wardrobes, allowing for year-round wearability. It also works great for childrens clothing due to its calm nature.