Colonial blue is a medium-dark shade of blue that was historically used in the British colonies. It takes its name from the time period and location in which it gained popularity. Colonial blue has a grayish tint to it that differentiates it from brighter shades of blue. The exact specifications of colonial blue have varied over time, but it generally refers to a blue-gray color. In this article, we will explore the different shades and variations that are considered colonial blue.
Historical Origins
Colonial blue has its origins in the dyeing and textile trades of the British colonies in North America and Asia during the 18th and 19th centuries. Indigo was one of the primary dyes used during this time period. Indigo dye ranges in shade from a bright blue to more grayish blue tones. The blue-gray indigo dyes were well-suited for use on fabrics and clothing in the colonies, as they hid dirt and wear well. Over time, this distinctive colonial blue color became associated with the fashions and lifestyles of the colonial era.
Common Shades
There is no one standardized colonial blue color. It can cover a range of blue-gray shades. However, there are some commonly cited versions:
– RAL 5024 Pastel Blue – This paler shade has RGB values of 174/198/207.
– Benjamin Moore Colonial Blue 2062-50 – A medium colonial blue with RGB 109/129/156.
– Farrow & Ball Hague Blue No. 25 – A dark blue-gray with RGB values of 111/130/148.
– Sherwin Williams Naval SW 6244 – A grayish tone of colonial blue, with RGB 133/145/173.
– Pantone 282 C – A bright, vivid colonial blue with RGB 0/61/170.
So while there are many possibilities, colonial blues tend to have RGB values in the range of 100-175 for red and green, and 150-210 for blue. This produces blue-grays with more gray than vivid blue.
Use in Home Decor
Colonial blue continues to be a popular paint color choice for home interiors. It evokes a historical New England or colonial style. This versatile neutral works well in many rooms including:
– Living Rooms – Colonial blue is both soothing and sophisticated on living room walls. Pair with whites or ivories for trim.
– Bedrooms – The soft gray-blue tone is perfect for restful, relaxing bedrooms. Use it on walls, or for accent pieces.
– Kitchens – Colonial blue lower cabinets paired with white uppers creates a classic kitchen look.
– Bathrooms – From paler sky blue to deeper navy colonial blues, any shade brings a crisp, clean look to bathrooms.
– Entryways – Greet guests with a small pop of colonial blue on a front door or entryway wall.
Here is a table showing some popular colonial blue paint colors for home interiors:
| Paint Brand | Color Name | RGB Values |
|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore | Alexandria Beige HC-93 | 216/212/198 |
| Sherwin-Williams | Naval SW 6244 | 133/145/173 |
| Behr | Blue Note PPU18-15 | 121/134/150 |
| Valspar | Sky Captain 4004-10B | 178/192/215 |
Use in Fashion
Beyond home decor, colonial blue also has a place in fashion. It offers a vintage feel that pairs well with warm metals like gold and brass. Some ways to incorporate colonial blue into outfits include:
– Dresses – A midi colonial blue dress makes a flattering statement piece. Go for breezy cottons or flowy silhouettes.
– Blazers – A tailored colonial blue blazer gives a nod to nautical styles. Wear with white and navy accents.
– Denim – Vintage-wash colonial blue jeans have a timeworn look.
– Shoes – From sandals to Oxford heels, colonial blue shoes ground an outfit.
– Bags – Try a structured colonial blue handbag or backpack for an everyday essential.
– Accessories – Scarves, hair ribbons, and jewelry in colonial blue make subtle accent pieces.
Pair colonial blue with other soothing neutrals like cream, ivory, tan, or light gray for a relaxed yet put-together vibe. It also pops nicely against black and white.
Conclusion
In summary, colonial blue refers to a range of medium-dark blue-gray shades popularized during the 18th and 19th century British colonial era. While there is no single colonial blue, common versions have RGB values around 100-175 red and green, and 150-210 blue. It continues to be utilized in home decor for its versatile, neutral style. Colonial blue also makes periodic comebacks in fashion when vintage-inspired looks are on-trend. From clothing to decor, colonial blue offers a sophisticated, timeless color option.
