Introducing a classic combination – navy blue and prussian blue.
These two shades of blue may appear similar in color, but they differ greatly in their histories and the emotions they evoke.
In this blog post, we’ll go over the origins of each hue and explain when each might be best used in designs.
So if you’re looking for a way to add some stylish flair to an interior space or marketing campaign, look no further than navy and prussian blues!
Differences Between Navy Blue vs Prussian Blue
The colors navy blue and prussian blue may appear to be similar in shade, but there are distinct differences between them.
From their origins to the emotions they evoke, here is a breakdown of how these two blues stand apart from one another:
Navy Blue
Navy blue is a deep saturation of the color blue, commonly associated with strength, security, and trustworthiness.
It has been used for centuries for uniforms and military associations due to its connotation of power, added to its timeless appeal as a color.
Prussian Blue
Prussian blue was developed in the 18th century by accident when an artist mixed up a batch of paint colors.
This hue has an intense vividness that makes it perfect for accents or creating striking visuals that demand attention.
It can be used to evoke feelings of energy or exploration in marketing pieces and home designs alike.
Hex Codes
To make sure you get the right color, you need their hex codes:
- Navy Blue’s Hex Code: #003f87
- Prussian Blue’s Hex Code: #003153
Keep in mind that you must enter the codes precisely – one mistake and you get the wrong color.
Psychological Connotations of Each Color: What Each Color Communicates
The colors navy blue and Prussian blue may be similar in shade, but they each have distinct psychological connotations.
Here is a breakdown of how each color communicates when used in various design contexts.
Navy Blue
Navy blue is a strong, reliable color that many associates with strength, trustworthiness, and security.
It can be used to denote commitment and reliability in branding or home decor, as well as provide an air of sophistication to any visual arrangement.
Prussian Blue
Prussian blue is a vivid hue that immediately catches the eye.
This eye-catching color often evokes feelings of energy and exploration, making it perfect for marketing pieces or home designs that aim to inspire the viewer to try something new.
Popular Usage
Navy blue and Prussian blue have become popular choices for fashion, design, and home decor.
Here’s a look at how and why these two blue hues are used in some of the most common settings:
Fashion
Navy blue is especially popular in fashion for its classic style and traditional associations with sophistication.
This hue often appears in business attire, blazers, professional shoes, and other wardrobe staples.
Prussian blue is a more daring choice for fashion statements but can still be used to create an elegant look when paired with neutral tones or muted shades of accessories.
Design
In graphic design, both navy blue and Prussian blue are often used together to create depth and provide contrast.
Navy blue is great for creating visual interest as a backdrop or as textured shapes while Prussian blue can be used to draw attention to certain elements within the composition.
Home Decor
For home decor, both navy blue and Prussian blue are excellent choices to add subtle color without going overboard.
Navy blue works great in traditional rooms with heavy wooden furniture while Prussian blue can bring life into otherwise dull interiors by adding vibrancy to the walls or furniture items.
Origins of Each Color
Navy blue and Prussian blue are two distinct colors, yet they share a history of origin that goes back centuries.
Here’s a look at how each of these popular shades of blue came to be:
Navy Blue
Navy blue originated in the 1700s as the uniform color for British Royal Navy officers.
It has since grown in popularity and is now used in various applications ranging from fashion to home decor.
Prussian Blue
Prussian blue was accidentally discovered by Chancelor Jakob Schlesinger in 1704 when he mixed iron sulfate and potash to create a deep shade of blue.
Unlike navy blue, which has been around for centuries, Prussian blue is a relatively new color and only gained widespread acceptance through modern commercial applications in design and fashion.
FAQs about Navy Blue vs Prussian Blue
What is the difference between navy blue and prussian blue?
The main difference between navy blue and Prussian blue is in their origin. Navy blue was created as the uniform color for British Royal Navy officers in the 1700s while Prussian blue was discovered accidentally byChancelor Jakob Schlesinger in 1704.
When should I use navy blue and when should I use prussian blue?
It all depends on your preference and application. If you’re looking for a classic and timeless hue then navy blue might be your best bet. For something more daring, then Prussian blue can give you an edge.
Which color is older, navy or Prussian blue?
The origins of both shades of blue date back to the 1700s. However, it is believed that the origins of navy blue may indeed stretch all the way back to ancient Egypt.
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.