Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
The hex color code #000C12 represents a very dark shade of blue, often referred to as Blue Charcoal. It's composed of 0% red, 4.7% green, and 7.1% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined as (0, 12, 18). This color is primarily used in contexts where a dark, muted, and sophisticated tone is desired. Given its low luminance value, #000C12 is generally perceived as a color belonging to the darker end of the spectrum. Colors like this are often associated with feelings of calmness, sophistication, and depth. In web design and graphic design, it's crucial to consider contrast ratios when using such a dark color to ensure readability and accessibility.
The hex color #000C12, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in very low contrast against standard white backgrounds, making text or graphical elements difficult to perceive for users, especially those with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair this color with much lighter hues to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Using tools to check color contrast is highly advisable. Consider increasing font sizes or using bolder font weights to improve readability. Additionally, avoid using this color for critical interactive elements without sufficient visual cues or labels. Providing alternative color schemes can also improve the accessibility of your content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0a192f
A slightly lighter shade of blue can offer better readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray can be a neutral alternative that provides better contrast when used with light text.
- #191970
Midnight blue offers more readability than Blue Charcoal but preserves the dark aesthetic look.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Blue Charcoal can be used for website headers, footers, or sidebars to create a sophisticated and subdued aesthetic. It pairs well with lighter accent colors to maintain readability and visual interest. Its dark nature makes it ideal for dark-themed websites or applications, where it can serve as a primary background color. It also works well for creating a sense of depth and sophistication when used sparingly in user interface elements. Careful consideration must be given to contrast ratios to ensure the design is accessible and user-friendly.
Interior Design
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. When paired with lighter, warmer colors like creams, beiges, or golds, it can create a balanced and inviting space. Consider using it in rooms with ample natural light to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Accents of metallic elements like silver or chrome can enhance the sophisticated feel.
Fashion
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be used for sophisticated and versatile garments. It is especially suited for outerwear, suiting, or evening wear. Blue Charcoal is a good alternative to black as it looks softer. Pair it with lighter shades like white, cream, or pastels for a refined look, or combine it with jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue for a bold statement. The color can also be used in accessories such as handbags or scarves to add a touch of elegance to any outfit.