Navy blue is a very common color that has been used in fashion, design, uniforms, and more for decades. The exact shade of navy blue can vary slightly depending on the specific application, so having a standard reference point is helpful for maintaining consistency across different uses. This is where Pantone, the leading publisher of color standards across various industries, comes in. Pantone has specific color references for virtually every shade imaginable, including multiple varieties of blue. For navy blue specifically, there are a few different Pantone shades that are considered the standards.
Pantone 19-4023 TPX
One of the most commonly used Pantone references for navy blue is Pantone 19-4023 TPX. This shade is a rich, deep blue that exemplifies the classic navy blue color. It has just a slight hint of brightness to it that gives it vibrancy. Some key details about Pantone 19-4023 TPX Navy Blue:
- Hex Triplet: #004882
- RGB Values: R=0, G=72, B=130
- CMYK Values: C=100, M=44, Y=0, K=49
- The “TPX” in the name refers to the Pantone Textile Paper eXtended color system.
- It has been used frequently in corporate branding and logos, uniforms, academia, and retail.
This shade of navy blue has a timeless, versatile quality to it that has secured its place as a standard navy blue for a wide range of applications. It is dark enough to be sophisticated while still retaining an energizing sense of color.
Pantone 296 C
Another Pantone option for navy blue that is very similar to Pantone 19-4023 TPX is Pantone 296 C. Some key details:
- Hex Triplet: #212343
- RGB Values: R=33, G=35, B=67
- CMYK Values: C=91, M=81, Y=24, K=40
- The “C” in the name refers to the Pantone Coated color system.
- Slightly darker shade than 19-4023 TPX.
- Frequently used in printing projects and marketing materials using coated paper stocks.
Pantone 296 C Navy Blue has a rich, almost inky appearance that makes it ideal for use in print publications or other materials where color accuracy needs to be exactly reproduced. It has a bold elegance to it.
Pantone 289 C
On the slightly brighter end of the navy blue spectrum, Pantone 289 C is another option:
- Hex Triplet: #27405C
- RGB Values: R=39, G=64, B=92
- CMYK Values: C=88, M=60, Y=9, K=27
- Brighter and slightly more vibrant than 296 C.
- Works well for youthful, energetic branding themes.
With its energizing brightness, Pantone 289 C Navy Blue can create a navy blue look and feel with a bit more punch and modern appeal.
Pantone Color Bridge Coated Guide
In addition to the Pantone TPX and Coated systems, the Pantone Color Bridge Coated guide is another reference source for standard Pantone colors, including various shades of navy blue:
| Pantone C | Color Name |
|---|---|
| 19-4023 | TPX Navy Blue |
| 289 C | Bright Navy Blue |
| 280 C | Navy Blue |
| 2766 C | Medium Navy Blue |
This guide provides specifications for navy blue tones from the bright 289 C down to the deep rich 2766 C, all using the Pantone Coated formula guide.
Similar Blue Shades
In some cases, shades that are near navy blue on the color spectrum may sometimes be viable alternatives or used interchangeably. Here are some other Pantone colors that are similar:
- Pantone 287 C – Comparable to navy, slightly more green-blue.
- Pantone 286 C – Slightly brighter, more vivid version of navy.
- Pantone 2766 C – Deeper navy, but still has blue vibrancy.
- Pantone 2767 C – Very dark midnight blue, hint of navy.
While these shades are not technically classified as true navy blues, they can work well for many navy blue applications where variation is allowed.
Use of Navy Blue in Fashion
One prominent industry that makes extensive use of navy blue is fashion. This versatile neutral works well for all styles and seasons. A few examples of navy blue in fashion:
- Women’s suits in navy blue jackets and skirts or trousers.
- Men’s navy blue blazers paired with khaki pants.
- Navy blue overcoats and peacoats for men and women.
- Navy blue dresses for women.
- Navy blue ties and neckties for men.
- Navy blue leggings and tights.
- Navy blue jeans.
Navy blue allows fashion pieces to remain classic and versatile while still having a bold, rich coloration.
Use of Navy Blue in Uniforms
In addition to fashion, navy blue is ubiquitous when it comes to uniforms. The color projects professionalism and authority across many uniform contexts.
- Naval uniforms
- Police uniforms
- Firefighter uniforms
- Airline pilot and flight attendant uniforms
- Military uniforms
- Security guard uniforms
- School uniforms
The navy blue shade provides a look that is both dignified and dependable for uniform items.
Use of Navy Blue in Design
Beyond apparel and uniforms, navy blue plays a prominent role in all areas of design:
- Web design – commonly used as a background color and for headers/footers.
- Packaging design – used to make logos stand out against white backgrounds.
- Home decor – used in furniture, rugs, bedding, and wall colors.
- Print design – commonly used along with spot colors.
- Industrial design – gives a sleek, refined look to electronics, appliances, vehicles, etc.
Navy blue is versatile enough to stand on its own as an accent color or seamlessly blend in as a neutral backdrop.
Use of Navy Blue in Branding and Marketing
For companies and organizations establishing a visual brand identity, navy blue is a go-to color choice:
- Banking/finance – Communicates trust, security, professionalism.
- Technology – Seen as reliable, cutting-edge, and competent.
- Healthcare – Projects a sense of calm, expertise, and dependability.
- Retail – Seen as sophisticated yet approachable.
- Food/beverage – Communicates high quality and craftsmanship.
Navy blue allows brands to strike a balance between authority and friendliness in their messaging and identity.
Use of Navy Blue in Sports
The sports world also finds navy blue to be an extremely useful and flexible color. Just a few examples of navy blue usage in sports:
- New York Yankees
- Toronto Blue Jays
- Detroit Pistons
- Charlotte Hornets
- Kansas City Chiefs
- Cleveland Browns
- New York Giants
- Oklahoma Sooners
Whether it is used as the main uniform color or as an accent, navy blue has become ingrained in the identities of many professional, college, and recreational sports teams.
Conclusion
When searching for the perfect navy blue, having the specific Pantone color reference can make all the difference in nailing down the right shade. While there are several Pantone options within the navy blue family, Pantone 19-4023 TPX and 296 C are the true standards. Navy blue is a flexible, reliable color that can be adapted to virtually any industry or design application while retaining its inherent classic, polished characteristics. Having the precise Pantone color code ensures consistency across different materials and mediums. So when you need dependable, authoritative navy blue, match your selection to the Pantone reference for guaranteed color accuracy and effectiveness.