Sky Blue vs Navy Blue vs Royal Blue – Differences Explained

Looking for a shade of blue but can’t decide? Sky Blue, Navy Blue, and Royal Blue are great options. This article will compare the three colors and provide you with the information you need to make the right decision.

Blue is a popular color in both wall paint and furniture. However, there are many shades of blue that can include red and green.

To make sure that your blue choice will work with the colors that you love best, it’s important to be aware of the power of contrast.

Sky Blue vs Navy Blue vs Royal Blue Paint Colors

Definitions

Hex Code

The attributed hex codes for each color is a hexadecimal method of determining the combination of red, blue and green that goes into creating a color.

The important thing about a hex code is that it is shorter; being able to lose the three digits of each of the RGB code allows coders and designers to more efficiently note which colors they want to be included in their web pages and layouts.

RGB Code

While the use of hex codes really didn’t blossom until it was necessary to create efficient HTML coding, the RGB scale stretches back into the early 1900s and was popular in coloring in print media, from cartoons to advertisements.

When considering paint colors vs. digitally produced colors, it’s important to remember that the primary paint colors are red, blue, and yellow. In the light spectrum, you’re working with red, green, and blue.

When you combine all the colors in paint, you get black. If you split white light in a prism, you will get all the colors broken out.

LRV

LRV, or Light Reflectance Value, is a measurement that indicates the amount of light a paint color reflects. It is expressed as a percentage, ranging from 0% (absolute black, which absorbs all light) to 100% (absolute white, which reflects all light).

Sky Blue

When you review the RGB code for sky blue, you will note that this color includes no red. If you love to spend time in a garden, you may note that green leaves fade into the background while flowers, particularly flowers from red to pink to orange, will stand out strongly.

The primary shade in sky blue is of course blue. This color also has quite a bit of green in it.

If you want to use this color in your home, be aware that many shades will blend nicely with it, but anything in the red spectrum will stand out.

Greens with a lot of yellow, such as celery or moss, may not look their best against sky blue. Deep greens, such as pine or moss, will take on a lush look against sky blue.

Because sky blue really can offer a calm and restful space for the eye, look for greens that have a healthy balance between green and blue for best results.

Because pinks and reds will stand out against sky blue, consider using a pale shade of pink, peach or buttery yellow in your decor.

Another simple way to put sky blue to use in your home without creating a lot of visual contrast is to tone it down with a bright white and put it on the ceiling of your home.

A blue ceiling and white walls, paired with a simple wooden or sisal floor covering could allow you to create a lovely oasis in your space.

A word about beige and blue: Many beige or cream tones have a great deal of yellow. Because sky blue has a strong percentage of green, you may find a better pairing of beige and sky blue if you lean closer to grey or bright white than to beige.

The color of light will be critically important to making this choice; if you plan to use sky blue on the walls of a room that gets a lot of sun, you may be happier with a crisp white trim or ceiling paint. The yellow shade of sunlight may be enough.

HEX COLOR: #00B5E2
RGB: 0, 181, 226

Paint Color Samples

Would you like to sample these paint colors? I recommend using a peel and stick paint sample from SAMPLIZE. Peel and stick paint samples are very affordable and easy to use. They are also clean and environmentally friendly!

Advantages of using peel and stick paint samples:

• EASY TO USE: Simply move your SAMPLIZE paint sample around the room to test under a variety of lighting conditions.
• AFFORDABLE: Budget-friendly solution and no more buying inaccurate swatches, rollers, wasted paint.
• SUPER FAST DELIVERY: Depending on your location, 1 day delivery is possible.
• ORDER FROM HOME: Save a trip to the store looking for samples.
• NO MESS: SAMPLIZE uses real paint samples with zero-mess
• NO WASTE: No leftover cans or wasted paint.

Sky Fall (SW 9049) by Sherwin-Williams

Sky Fall (SW 9049) by Sherwin-Williams is a soft, muted blue with a serene and calming quality. This color evokes a sense of tranquility and openness, making it an excellent choice for creating a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.

Best Uses:

1. Bedrooms: Sky Fall’s soothing tones are ideal for bedrooms, promoting relaxation and restful sleep.
2. Living Rooms: It can create a calm and inviting environment in living rooms, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and conversation.
3. Bathrooms: Use Sky Fall in bathrooms to evoke a spa-like atmosphere, enhancing the sense of calm and cleanliness.
4. Offices: The color’s calming quality can contribute to a focused and stress-free workspace in home offices or study areas.
5. Nurseries and Kids’ Rooms: Sky Fall is a great choice for nurseries or children’s rooms, offering a tranquil and soothing environment.
6. Accent Walls: It works well on accent walls, adding a subtle pop of color without overwhelming the space.

Colors that Complement Sky Fall:

1. Whites and Off-Whites:
   • Pure White (SW 7005): A crisp, clean white that provides a fresh and bright contrast to the muted blue.
   • Alabaster (SW 7008): A warm white that harmonizes with Sky Fall, offering a soft and balanced contrast.
   • Snowbound (SW 7004): A cool white that enhances the calm and serene quality of Sky Fall.
2. Neutrals:
   • Repose Gray (SW 7015): A light gray that pairs well with Sky Fall, adding a sophisticated and neutral contrast.
   • Agreeable Gray (SW 7029): A warm, light gray that complements the soft blue, creating a harmonious palette.
   • Accessible Beige (SW 7036): A light beige that provides a natural and balanced contrast.
3. Greens:
   • Sea Salt (SW 6204): A light, calming green that pairs beautifully with Sky Fall, enhancing the tranquil feel.
   • Rainwashed (SW 6211): A soft blue-green that complements Sky Fall and adds a touch of refreshing color.
4. Blues:
   • Misty (SW 6232): A light blue-gray that harmonizes with Sky Fall, creating a cohesive and serene palette.
   • Horizon (SW 6494): A soft, muted blue that adds depth and dimension while complementing Sky Fall.
5. Warm Tones:
   • Nantucket Dune (SW 7527): A warm, sandy beige that adds a touch of warmth to the cool tones of Sky Fall.
   • Lenox Tan (HC-44): A warm tan that provides a natural and balanced contrast.

Sky Fall (SW 9049) by Sherwin-Williams is a versatile and calming color that can bring a sense of tranquility to various spaces. It pairs well with a range of complementary tones, from neutrals to soft greens and blues, creating a balanced and harmonious design.

Hex Code: #8AC8E1

LRV: 51

Peel-and-Stick Paint Sample – Sky Fall (9049) – Sherwin-Williams

Navy Blue

Navy blue is a remarkably balanced color. There are a few risks when working with navy in your home decorating; in a white light, such as daylight LED bulbs, navy can read as black or deep grey. In a yellow light, it is more likely to appear blue.

Navy works beautifully with cream because cream contains enough yellow to allow the blue to stand out.

However, if you want to use navy on a wall, choose your location with great care.

If you decide you don’t like it, covering it will take at least one coat of primer.

That being said, one navy blue wall can be useful if you are

• creating a relaxing space, such as a movie room or a library
• covering up a wall that has been repeatedly patched
• displaying a bright, disparate set of collectibles

As noted by the RGB code, navy is nicely balanced. If you have a collection of bright bottles or jars, ceramics or minerals, all of them will stand out well against navy. Consider adding a light inside the shelf to create bright pools for your display pieces.

Navy is a wonderful foil for rich reds. A navy sofa with a burgundy throw will be a wonderful treat for a reader or a movie watcher. A navy side chair will pair beautifully with a rust-toned sofa. Because navy is a strong shade, go ahead and pair it with bold colors.

HEX COLOR: #202A44
RGB: 32, 42, 68

Navy Masterpiece (1652) by Benjamin Moore

Navy Masterpiece (1652) by Benjamin Moore is a deep, rich navy blue with a timeless and classic appeal. This color exudes sophistication and elegance, making it a versatile choice for adding depth and drama to various spaces.

Best Uses:

1. Living Rooms: Navy Masterpiece can create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere in living rooms, providing a sophisticated and inviting backdrop.
2. Bedrooms: Its deep, calming tones are ideal for bedrooms, promoting a restful and serene environment.
3. Dining Rooms: This color adds a touch of elegance and formality to dining rooms, enhancing the dining experience.
4. Home Offices: Navy Masterpiece can create a strong, focused environment in home offices or study areas, promoting productivity and concentration.
5. Accent Walls: Use this color on an accent wall to add depth and interest to a room without overwhelming the space.
6. Kitchens: Navy Masterpiece works well in kitchens, especially on cabinetry, providing a chic and modern look.
7. Bathrooms: Its rich hue makes it perfect for bathrooms, creating a spa-like, sophisticated feel.
8. Exteriors: The color is also suitable for exterior applications, such as front doors or shutters, adding curb appeal with a bold statement.

Colors that Complement Navy Masterpiece:

1. Whites and Off-Whites:
   • Chantilly Lace (OC-65): A crisp, clean white that provides a bright and fresh contrast to the deep navy.
   • White Dove (OC-17): A soft, warm white that balances the richness of Navy Masterpiece with a gentle touch.
   • Simply White (OC-117): A warm white that complements the deep tones without overwhelming the space.
2. Neutrals:
   • Revere Pewter (HC-172): A light gray with warm undertones that provides a subtle contrast and complements the deep navy.
   • Edgecomb Gray (HC-173): A soft, neutral gray that harmonizes with Navy Masterpiece.
   • Balboa Mist (OC-27): A light, neutral gray that balances the intensity of the navy.
3. Greens:
   • Saybrook Sage (HC-114): A muted green that provides a calming contrast while keeping the palette harmonious.
   • Palladian Blue (HC-144): A soft, muted blue-green that offers a complementary and soothing touch.
4. Warm Tones:
   • Nantucket Dune (SW 7527): A warm, sandy beige that adds a natural and balanced contrast.
   • Lenox Tan (HC-44): A warm tan that complements the richness of Navy Masterpiece.
5. Metallic Accents:
   • Brushed Gold or Brass: Adds a touch of luxury and sophistication that complements the depth of Navy Masterpiece.
   • Silver: Provides a sleek and modern contrast, enhancing the boldness of the color.
   • Copper: Offers a warm, metallic contrast that adds warmth and depth.

Navy Masterpiece (1652) by Benjamin Moore is a versatile and elegant color that can add depth and sophistication to various spaces. It pairs beautifully with both light and dark tones, allowing for a balanced and timeless design.

Hex Code: #445255

LRV: 9.14

Peel-and-Stick Paint Sample – Navy Masterpiece (1652) – Black – Benjamin Moore

Royal Blue

Royal blue is another wonderful blue that offers a great balance. You will often see royal blue used in sports uniforms. First of all, it pairs beautifully with white.

It also works well with tones in the red and yellow spectrum. Finally, royal blue is balanced enough that will not fight with many shades of green.

Blue tones are inherently cool. Orange tones, from rust to orange to peach, will stand out against royal blue.

If you’re putting together a logo and you need it to go with several different background colors, include royal and white in your logo and it will appear crisp and clean.

Do pay special attention to the percentages when reviewing your choice of blue if you plan to use the shade in a large swath, such as painting all the walls of a room in one shade.

Royal has a close concentration of red and green. The blue tone, however, is near twice the amount of green.

Royal blue will stand strong against anything in the red family; even pinks will stand out and peaches and salmons will tussle with royal.

It’s a good idea to think about color saturation. A royal blue comforter in a small bedroom will take up a lot of visual real estate.

Orange curtains will create a strong visual contrast; while this pairing can work well on a sports uniform to boost the energy of the fans and player, these colors can be agitating to the spirit and eye in a bedroom.

A patterned curtain with gentle pastel shades will offer visual variety without a lot of jarring contrast.

Instead, consider using small pops of color against a large stretch of royal blue. A small collection of pillows that feature peach, mint green, white, and butter yellow could create a beautiful visual field and allow you to use all your favorite shades.

HEX COLOR: #5576D1
RGB: 85, 118, 209

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