Ming Blue
History, Fashion, Interior Design, & Pantone®
This week’s color takes its name from centuries of craft by one of the most famous dynasties in Chinese history—the Ming Dynasty.
More specifically, I’m referring to the deep cobalt blue famously used in their porcelain, typically on white.
A Brief History
Throughout history, Ming Blue has been a global symbol of refinement, trade, and high craftsmanship. Check out a Ming Dynasty porcelain flask below featuring a dragon below:
From the 14th to the 17th centuries, the Ming Dynasty’s porcelain exports—especially blue-and-white ceramics—were considered treasures across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
The cobalt pigment used to create Ming Blue came from Persia and was prized for its intensity and ability to maintain brilliance during high-temperature kiln firing.
This brilliant blue wasn’t just a technical achievement; it told stories of dragons, cranes, florals, and more, as you can see.
And today, the color continues to evoke a sense of regality, tradition, and global connection.
Fashion Design
Though not explicitly named 'Ming Blue,' the following fashion pieces showcase a comparable cobalt hue.
Saint Laurent Fall 2025 Ready-to-Wear
Saint Laurent’s 2025 Fall RTW collection, for example, features this blue in sculptural silhouettes, paired with a moody, lacquered finish that feels both regal and restrained.
Schiaparelli Fall 2025 Ready-to-Wear
Schiaparelli’s Fall 2025 collection, on the other hand, leans into drama with this deep, textured blue—cut in plush velvet, blending opulence with an architectural edge.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ming Blue (or a similar cobalt) brings depth, drama, and a refined sense of calm to a space.
Whether rendered in glossy tile, textured velvet, or matte walls, it transforms a room into something moody yet serene—anchored in tradition but undeniably modern.
But while it adds richness and depth to interiors, it tends to shine brightest when used in moderation. As an accent, for example, it brings a sense of drama without overwhelming the space.
Pantone® & More
If you’re looking to work with a similar blue, Pantone 19-4052 TCX Classic Blue is a solid option to go with. Lab, RGB, and HEX equivalents are also included in the image below:
#HEX: 0F4C81
sRGB: 15, 76, 129