The color royal blue sits right on the border between blue and purple on the color wheel. It contains elements of both blue and purple, making its exact classification somewhat subjective. While opinions differ, royal blue is generally considered a shade of blue rather than true purple. However, its purple undertones are strong enough that it is sometimes grouped with purples.
The Origins of Royal Blue
The first recorded use of “royal blue” as a color name in English was in 1810. It was one of the original 16 color names published in the very first color dictionary in English by A. Syme. The name refers to the close association of the vibrant blue shade with British royalty and aristocracy.
Blue has been used in the regalia of British royalty for centuries. In 1748, the British monarchy adopted dark blue as the official color for royal liveries. The specific shade chosen was reportedly inspired by the blue sash of the Order of the Garter, which dates back to the mid-14th century.
Over time, the royal blue used in liveries, sashes, and flags lightened slightly. By the early 19th century, the bright, medium blue we know as royal blue today had emerged as the standard. Besides its use by British royalty, the rich blue color came to be strongly associated with elite social status and ambition more broadly.
| Decade | Development |
|---|---|
| 1340s | Order of the Garter established with blue sashes |
| 1740s | British monarchy adopts dark blue as livery color |
| Early 1800s | Royal blue emerges as brighter, distinct shade |
| 1810 | “Royal blue” first recorded as a color name in English |
Royal Blue vs. Navy Blue
Royal blue is often confused with navy blue. But though they are closely related, they are considered separate colors with some key distinctions.
Navy blue refers to the very dark azure blue color used in British naval uniforms. The first recorded use of “navy blue” as a color name came a few decades after “royal blue,” in 1840. Navy blue takes its name from the British Royal Navy, as it was used as the color for naval uniforms and decorations.
Navy blue is darker and deeper than royal blue. It sits next to blue on the color wheel, whereas royal blue leans closer toward purple. While different sources cite slightly different shades for each blue, royal blue generally has more reddish purple undertones compared to navy blue.
| Royal Blue | Navy Blue |
|---|---|
| Brighter, medium blue | Darker, deep blue |
| Red-purple undertones | Pure blue undertones |
| Hex code: #4169E1 | Hex code: #000080 |
Royal Blue vs. Purple
Given its reddish undertones, royal blue also sits close to shades of purple on the color wheel. So in some contexts, it may be categorized as a type of purple rather than blue. But while opinions vary, royal blue is still generally considered more blue than purple.
One simple way to distinguish between blue and purple is by looking at their primary color influences. Blue shades like royal blue are influenced by the primary color blue. Purple shades are influenced by the primary colors red and blue.
Looking at the hex code for royal blue (#4169E1), we can see it contains both blue and red elements, giving it a purple tint. But the blue component is much more dominant. So while royal blue is not a pure blue, it still sits closer to blue than purple.
| Royal Blue | Purple |
|---|---|
| Closer to blue | Mix of red and blue |
| Blue dominant | Red and blue balanced |
| Hex code: #4169E1 | Hex code: #800080 |
Is Royal Blue a Warm or Cool Color?
Colors are often categorized into “warm” and “cool” tones. Warm colors like red, yellow, and orange give a heated, energetic impression. Cool colors like blue, purple, and green feel more calming and relaxed.
Royal blue is considered a cool color, due to its blue undertones. However, it is warmer than many other blues since it has hints of red and purple. It sits in the middle of the warm-cool spectrum compared to navy blue (very cool) and purple (warm).
| Warm Colors | Cool Colors |
|---|---|
| Red | Purple |
| Orange | Royal blue |
| Yellow | Blue |
| Navy blue |
This warm tint gives royal blue more versatility than a very cool blue when using it for design or fashion. Its hints of red and purple allow it to complement and stand out against a wide range of colors in ways a cooler blue could not.
Royal Blue in Design and Fashion
Thanks to its regal associations, royal blue evokes qualities like luxury, importance, and ambition. It has a bright, vibrant energy while still feeling refined and sophisticated.
In designs and branding, royal blue commands attention while conveying professionalism and trustworthiness. It is a popular color for corporate logos as it communicates success and integrity. Royal blue contrasts well with gold accents, which further emphasizes its luxuriousness.
In fashion, royal blue flatters most skin tones both for clothing and accessories. It pairs nicely with neutrals like white, gray, black, and brown. Light pinks and greens also complement its mix of warm and cool tones. Royal blue produces an eye-catching pop of color while still remaining versatile enough for everyday wear.
| Design and Branding | Fashion and Accessories |
|---|---|
| Conveys luxury and importance | Flatters most skin tones |
| Refined and professional | Pairs well with neutrals |
| Corporate logos | Eye-catching pop of color |
| Contrasts nicely with gold | Versatile for everyday wear |
Conclusion
While sitting right on the blue-purple border, royal blue is generally considered a shade of blue rather than true purple. Its blue undertones are more dominant than its reddish-purple tint. However, the hints of purple allow it to bridge the warm and cool color spectrum in a versatile way. This makes royal blue an eye-catching yet refined color for both design and fashion.
