Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
The hex color #000C11, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue with a subtle, cool undertone. It belongs to the blue color family but leans towards the darker end of the spectrum, almost appearing black. Its RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values are R:0, G:12, B:17, indicating a very low intensity of all three primary colors. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, it is composed of C:100, M:29, Y:0, K:93. This means it contains a high percentage of cyan and black, contributing to its darkness and bluish hue. The color is often associated with sophistication, elegance, and mystery, making it suitable for designs that require a touch of depth and formality. However, its dark nature also means careful consideration is needed in terms of accessibility and contrast when used in web or print media. Often, the color is confused with black and pure black has the code #000000.
The hex color #000C11, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very low luminance. When used as text against a white background, it fails all WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast requirements. This means users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, will struggle to read text presented in this color. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to use a much lighter foreground color in conjunction with #000C11. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the contrast ratio meets accessibility standards (minimum of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid using this color for essential information or interactive elements without ensuring sufficient contrast. Consider also providing alternative styling options that allow users to adjust the color scheme according to their preferences and needs. Using this color for decorative elements is fine if it does not convey critical information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Blue Charcoal can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers. Its dark tone adds a touch of elegance and professionalism. Use it sparingly for text, and always pair it with a light color (e.g., white or light gray) to ensure readability and meet accessibility standards. It can also be used for accents in charts or graphs. Consider using it as a background for code snippets to make it stand out from the rest of the page. However, avoid using it for interactive elements such as buttons or links, unless they are designed with sufficient contrast.
Interior Design
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms as an accent wall color. Consider using it for upholstery or curtains to add depth and richness to the space. Pair it with lighter colors, such as cream or beige, to balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling too enclosed. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can also complement the color and add a touch of luxury. In general, it suits modern interiors well.
Fashion Design
Blue Charcoal can be used as a base color in fashion design, especially for men's wear. It's commonly used in suits, coats, and trousers, providing a professional and elegant look. Combining it with light shirts will enhance the contrast and improve the overall styling. The color also works well for accessories such as ties and shoes. In women's fashion, it could be used in dresses, skirts and tops, often styled with statement jewelry or colorful scarves to add contrast.