What is the darkest navy color code?
The darkest shade of navy blue is known as midnight blue. This deep, rich blue got its name because it resembles the sky on a clear midnight. Midnight blue is a very dark shade of blue that borders on black. It sits between the standard navy blue and black on the color wheel.
The History of Midnight Blue
Midnight blue has a long history as a popular color for fashion, decoration, and visual arts. This deep shade of blue has been especially associated with the military and authority figures.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, midnight blue tunics were commonly worn by the British military and police. The dark navy color commanded respect and authority. Midnight blue uniforms and accessories also became popular among militaries in the United States, France, and other Western nations.
Besides the military, midnight blue was also embraced by the Victorian upper class. During the late 19th century, women’s evening gowns and men’s tuxedos were often made in rich midnight blue fabrics like satin and velvet. The color was a standard for formalwear that conveyed sophistication and luxury.
Midnight blue remains prevalent in uniforms and ceremonial clothing today. From police officers to hotel staff, many professionals wear midnight blue as a symbol of authority paired with trustworthiness.
What Makes Midnight Blue So Dark?
The key to midnight blue’s inky darkness is its very low lightness and its moderately low saturation.
On the HSL (hue, saturation, lightness) color scale, midnight blue typically has:
– Hue: 240 degrees (a blue hue)
– Saturation: 20-40%
– Lightness: 10-25%
Hue refers to the position on the color wheel – midnight blue sits between blue and blue-violet. Saturation refers to the intensity of the color. Midnight blue has medium-low saturation, meaning it’s muted rather than intense.
The most important factor is lightness. The very low lightness – between 10-25% – is what makes midnight blue look so dark. With most of the light absorbed rather than reflected, it takes on an extremely deep blue-black shade.
Midnight Blue Hex Codes
In graphic design, web development, and digital applications, midnight blue is represented by these primary hex color codes:
– #191970
– #000080
– #003366
Hex code #191970 is the closest representation of true midnight blue. It sits right between navy blue and black. The code breaks down to RGB values of:
– R (red) = 25
– G (green) = 25
– B (blue) = 112
#000080 is a slightly lighter midnight blue. #003366 is more of a dark teal than a true midnight. However, both of these colors are sometimes marketed as midnight blue.
| Hex Code | RGB Values |
|---|---|
| #191970 | R: 25 G: 25 B: 112 |
| #000080 | R: 0 G: 0 B: 128 |
| #003366 | R: 0 G: 51 B: 102 |
When working on digital projects, use hex code #191970 whenever possible for the most accurate midnight blue.
Midnight Blue Paint Colors
If you’re looking to decorate with midnight blue, you’ll find it in any major paint brand. Here are some of the most common midnight blue paint colors:
**Benjamin Moore:** Hale Navy 2062-10
**Sherwin-Williams:** Naval SW 6244
**Behr:** Blue Note M460-7
**Valspar:** Ship Navy 4004-10B
**PPG:** Midnight Navy 006-6
**Farrow & Ball:** Stiffkey Blue No.281
Again, the Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams shades are closet to a true midnight blue. Behr’s Blue Note is more of a dark periwinkle. Valspar’s Ship Navy reads as a very dark navy. Farrow & Ball’s Stiffkey Blue is a blend of blue, green, and black.
| Brand | Paint Color Name |
|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore | Hale Navy 2062-10 |
| Sherwin-Williams | Naval SW 6244 |
| Behr | Blue Note M460-7 |
| Valspar | Ship Navy 4004-10B |
| PPG | Midnight Navy 006-6 |
| Farrow & Ball | Stiffkey Blue No.281 |
If you want a true midnight blue for your walls or furniture, go for Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy or Sherwin-Williams’ Naval. Test swatches first to ensure the color is as dark as you desire.
Using Midnight Blue in Design and Fashion
Thanks to its dramatic, sultry look, midnight blue makes a strong style statement in any context. Here are some tips for rocking midnight blue in your designs, clothing, or decor:
**In interiors:** Midnight blue is bold, so use it sparingly in rooms. Paint or upholster an accent wall or furniture piece in midnight blue. Or accessorize with midnight blue pillows, rugs, or curtains. The color beautifully contrasts light walls and grounds the space.
**In graphics:** Midnight blue works well for backgrounds, borders, accents, and text. It has enough contrast to make text readable. Just ensure other colors have sufficient contrast from the dark blue background.
**In logos:** Midnight blue communicates trust, confidence, and professionalism. It’s commonly seen in finance, tech, medical, and corporate logos. Use white or light text on top of the dark blue for sufficient legibility.
**In clothing:** Midnight blue clothing inherently looks elegant and dressy. It’s a go-to color for evening wear. Use it minimally in daytime outfits – a midnight blue shirt with jeans or trousers, for example. Combine it with light neutrals and metallics for balance.
**In accessories:** Midnight blue works beautifully for shoes, handbags, jewelry, scarves, and other accessories. It serves as a versatile neutral that complements outfits with cool, warm, light, and dark colors. Metallic midnight blue accessories have an especially glamorous vibe.
The most important tip is to use midnight blue sparingly so it remains a dramatic accent. Let it contrast and enhance other colors, rather than overpowering a design or outfit.
How Midnight Blue Makes People Feel
Colors inevitably evoke psychological and emotional responses. So what feelings and impressions does midnight blue create?
**Sophistication** – Midnight blue is universally seen as an elegant, refined color. It has associations with luxury and exclusivity. Using it conveys taste and style.
**Confidence** – A bold, deep shade, midnight blue communicates strength and self-assurance. It has a grounded, authoritative energy.
**Intrigue** – Midnight blue has an aura of mystery. Its darkness suggests the unknown and makes people curious. Used in branding, it grabs attention in an understated way.
**Professionalism** – Thanks to its sophisticated yet steady nature, midnight blue denotes professionalism and credibility. It’s a staple color for uniforms and business environments.
**Masculinity** – Traditionally seen as a “masculine” color, midnight blue conveys ruggedness and intensity. However, it also reads as gender-neutral.
**Calmness** – Though bold, midnight blue has a tranquil vibe. Its darker shade creates a soothing, grounded feel. Use it to relax people.
Overall, this versatile yet striking shade of dark blue evokes classiness, subtle power, and intrigue. It allows brands and people to stand out without being loud or garish.
Conclusion
From its origins in military uniforms to its current popularity in design and fashion, midnight blue has long served as a dramatic neutral that connotes confidence, credibility, and luxury. This extremely dark shade of blue sits right between navy and black on the color wheel.
With hex codes like #191970, RGB values around R:25 G:25 B:112, and very low lightness between 10-25%, midnight blue retains its edgy mystique in any medium. Use it minimally but strategically to add sophistication, elegance, and visual interest. Just take care to provide enough contrast when using midnight blue alongside other colors.
Midnight blue paints and digital color codes allow you to harness the dreamy allure of a clear night sky. But use them judiciously so this deep, bold blue makes the maximum impact. Whether you’re painting a room, designing a website, or choosing an outfit for a formal event, midnight blue is sure to lend an air of confidence and poise.
