Are you confused about the differences between admiral blue and navy blue? If so, you wouldn’t be the first or the last!
The truth is that it can be hard to tell the difference between these two beautiful hues, especially since they both have a timeless elegance that looks great in any setting.
In this blog post, we explore the history of each color, as well as their varying shades and uses in design.
We also discuss how each of these blues differs from one another, and provide tips on how to use them in your home, business, fashion, or other designs.
Read on below to learn more about the differences of admiral blue vs navy blue!
Differences Between Admiral Blue vs Navy Blue
Admiral blue and navy blue are both classic blue hues that have a timeless and undeniable elegance to them.
Although they are often confused, there are subtle differences between these two popular old shades of blue.
Let’s dig into the meat of it, below:
Admiral Blue
Admiral blue is a deeper, richer color than navy blue, with more of a purple undertone.
Further, admiral blue can also be used as an accent color to add a pop of color without overwhelming the eye.
Additionally, admiral blue was originally developed for U.S. Navy uniforms in World War II
Navy Blue
Navy blue is slightly lighter in hue and has more of a gray undertone than admiral blue.
Both colors look great when used in home decor but navy blue is most often used as the main color for designs, or for furniture or rugs to provide a calm backdrop for all other design elements.
Navy blue originated with the Royal Navy in Britain when they started using the dye for their uniforms (to distinguish their own sailors from opposition sailors, at a distance).
Hex Codes
Both Admiral Blue and Navy Blue have hex codes that identify their exact color that you should be aware of.
That way, there’s no guesswork:
- Admiral Blue’s hex code is #1C39BB
- Navy Blue’s hex code is #003f87
Knowing these hex codes can be helpful if you’re trying to add or replicate either of these hues in a design project – be it digital or physical.
Additionally, you can use online tools or apps to convert the hex codes into RGB (Red-Green-Blue) codes and CMYK (Cyan-Magenta-Yellow-Black) codes for more exact color matching.
Psychological Connotations of Each Color: What Each Color Communicates
Admiral Blue and Navy Blue are two shades that evoke a sense of calmness, strength, and authority – and though they are very much similar colors, they do communicate slightly different psychological connotations:
Admiral Blue
Admiral Blue is often associated with loyalty and trustworthiness due to its origins in the U.S navy uniforms from World War II.
Additionally, Admiral Blue can be used to convey confidence and sophistication in fashion and design as well as home decor.
Navy Blue
On the other hand, Navy Blue is seen as more regal and dignified because of its long-standing history with world militaries, primarily its origins with the British Royal Navy.
Navy blue can be used to create a bold yet elegant statement in fashion and design, as well as for a calm and well-balanced home decor theme.
Both colors show respect when used in design projects such as logos or branding materials.
Popular Usage introduction
Admiral Blue and Navy Blue are both popular blue-type colors that are used in a wide variety of design projects.
They are often used for logos, branding materials, websites, and posters to create a lasting impression and convey authority or trustworthiness, as well as accents in home decor themes.
Both shades of blue are also quite the popular pick for business suits (and skirts) these days.
Fashion
Admiral Blue and Navy Blue remain popular colors in fashion, from high-end designers to everyday street style.
Admiral Blue can often be seen in business casual attire such as dress shirts, blazers, trousers, skirts, and suits.
It is a classic color that exudes sophistication and lends an air of authority to the wearer.
Navy Blue also rises in popularity especially when it comes to slacks, jeans, and jackets.
Whether paired with other monochrome outfits or vivid colors like red or yellow, navy blue adds just the right amount of boldness to any look.
Design
Admiral Blue and Navy Blue are popular choices for design projects such as logos, branding materials, websites, and posters.
This color palette is known to be sophisticated and create a lasting impression.
Navy blue can easily convey a sense of trustworthiness while admiral blue can lend authority to any project.
In addition, these colors can also be used together to create visually appealing designs that stand out among their competitors.
Home Decor
Admiral Blue and Navy Blue are popular colors in home decor, especially when it comes to accent pieces such as pillows, throws, rugs, and artwork.
These colors bring a sense of strength and stability to the room while still being calming and inviting.
They also pair well with lighter shades like white or grey for a subtle but modern feel.
Whether used alone or as part of an eclectic palette, these two colors can make any space feel warm and inviting.
Origins of Each Color
Admiral Blue and Navy Blue have been used in design projects for centuries, with each shade having its unique origins.
Admiral Blue
Admiral Blue is said to be derived from 18th-century uniforms that were worn by the Royal Navy in Britain, while the darker Navy Blue was popularized in the 19th century due to its association with the U.S. Marines.
Navy Blue
Over time, these colors have come to mean different things: while both can indicate elegance and trust, Admiral Blue is seen as more sophisticated whereas Navy Blue can evoke a sense of strength or power.
Regardless of their roots, these two shades continue to be timelessly classic choices for design projects, home decor, and fashion alike.
Common Questions
What is the difference between Admiral Blue and Navy Blue?
Admiral Blue tends to be a lighter shade with somewhat of a sky-blue undertone, whereas Navy Blue is darker and richer. That said, all things considered about admiral blue vs navy blue, the slight difference between the two is sometimes barely visible – especially depending on the lighting.
Is one color more timeless than the other?
Both colors are considered timeless classics for design projects. Likewise, both of these noble blue colors are associated with sophistication since their origins in military uniforms (more than 200 years ago).
Are there any specific items that look best in these colors?
Yes – accent pieces like pillows, throws, rugs, and artwork look great when done in either Admiral Blue or Navy Blue. Additionally, these colors pair perfectly with white or grey hues to create a subtle yet modern feel.
Daniela Corango loves to see the color in all things. She’s passionate about fashion, and interior design. She recently moved to New York and lives with her 2 dogs Peppy and Cinnamon.