Dark navy blue is a deep, rich shade of blue that has become a classic color for uniforms, business attire, and formalwear. Determining the exact hex code for dark navy can be tricky since there are many similar shades of dark or navy blue. Let’s take a closer look at what constitutes dark navy and examine some common hex codes used to represent this versatile color.
Defining Dark Navy Blue
Navy blue refers to a deep shade of blue that got its name from being used as the color for British Royal Navy uniforms. Dark navy is the darkest shade of navy blue before it becomes an outright dark blue. It sits between the lighter navy blues and the midnight blues on the color spectrum.
There are no formally defined color boundaries that mark where navy blue ends and dark navy begins. In general, dark navy is considered to be a very deep shade of blue, but still somewhat bright and recognizable as blue. It differs from lighter navies in having more black or gray added to deepen the shade. But it retains enough blue hue to avoid being mistaken for a different dark color like black, gray, or dark purple.
Hex Codes for Dark Navy Blue
On the standard RGB hex code color spectrum, dark navy generally falls somewhere between the hex values of #000080 (navy) and #00035B (dark blue). However, there are many hex code variations for shades that can be considered dark navy blue.
Here are some of the most commonly used hex codes for dark navy:
| Hex Code | Color Preview |
|---|---|
| #001F3F | |
| #00035B | |
| #000080 | |
| #000004 |
As you can see, these shades are all very deep blues that appear black or almost black at first glance. They differ subtly in their hints of blue and black tones.
#000080 Dark Navy Hex Code
Of these options, #000080 is considered the quintessential dark navy blue. The hue is balanced between the brightness of blue and depth of black. #000080 is the hex code used for the standard dark navy blue in most software design programs and photo editing tools. It will give you the classic deep navy blue.
This shade of dark navy has a red value of 0, green value of 0, blue value of 128, and an alpha (transparency) value of 255. The absence of red and green accounts for its deep blue rather than purple or teal appearance. The 128 blue value gives it plenty of rich blue saturation.
Uses of Dark Navy Blue
Dark navy has long been a popular color for uniforms, originally stemming from British naval and maritime use. It continues to be used for uniforms today including by the New York Police Department.
Dark navy blue is also commonly worn by businessmen and politicians in suits and ties. It projects authority and professionalism. Few colors match the versatility of a crisp dark navy suit.
In formalwear, dark navy is considered almost as classic as black. Dark navy tuxedos and evening gowns align to traditional expectations for elegance and sophistication.
Beyond clothing, dark navy also sees extensive use for interior design. Its sophistication makes it suitable for home offices, studies, or libraries. Combined with lighter blues, dark navy lends itself well to nautical-themed decor.
The auto industry has adopted dark navy as the color for many luxury vehicle interiors. Brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lexus, and Audi often offer deep navy leather upholstery.
Dark Navy Blue vs. Other Dark Blues
With so many variations of blue, it can be difficult to tell dark navy apart from other deep or dark shades of blue.
Dark navy stands apart from lighter blues with its richer, near-black darkness. Midnight blue is the closest shade, but leans slightly more purple and less pure blue than dark navy.
Navy blue itself is considered a medium shade of blue, not a dark navy. It is much brighter and more recognizable as a blue than the deeper dark navy shade.
Prussian blue is another very dark blue, but it has a colder, grayer cast than the richer blue undertones of classic dark navy. Similarly, sapphire blue is extremely deep but has a hint of green rather than pure blue.
Conclusion
Dark navy blue occupies a versatile niche between the lighter blues and the darkest shades of blue and black. It takes on an almost black appearance while retaining a subtle richness of hue. This unique personality has made it the go-to deep blue for formal attire and professional settings.
While there are many deep blues to choose from, #000080 stands apart as the quintessential dark navy. Use this hex code in web design, graphic work, or any project where you want to employ a classic, clean dark navy blue.
