Holly
General Information about #001616
The hex color code #001616, often referred to as 'Holly,' is a very dark shade of teal, almost black. It's composed of 0% red, 8.6% green, and 8.6% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:0, G:22, and B:22. The color is typically perceived as a deep, muted, and somewhat mysterious color. Because of the low brightness, it is not a color that can be used in every environment. The color is well suited for dark themes and backgrounds. The name 'Holly' suggests an association with nature and the deep green hues of holly leaves, although the color itself is considerably darker. When using the color in UI's it's important to check the contrast, so text is still readable.
The hex color #001616 presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against both white and black backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. This color fails to meet the minimum contrast ratios recommended for standard text (4.5:1) and large text (3:1). Therefore, it is highly discouraged to use #001616 for text or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast. When this color is being used, it is important to use accessibility tools to check the combination with other colors, in order to achieve sufficient contrast to be readable for all users. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter color variations or pairing it with a much brighter foreground color to ensure adequate contrast. Ensure that interactive elements also have sufficient visual cues beyond color alone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #002222
A slightly lighter shade that provides a touch more visibility while maintaining a similar deep tone.
- #333333
A muted gray that can act as a neutral background, offering better contrast than #001616.
- #112211
A desaturated green that is closer to #001616, but may have better contrast when paired with other colors.
Applications
Dark Mode UI Background
In user interface design, #001616 could be utilized as a background color for dark mode interfaces, specifically for panels or decorative elements where subtlety is desired. However, it is imperative to ensure that any text or interactive components placed on this background have sufficient contrast to meet accessibility standards. For example, lighter shades of text can be used to ensure readability. Consideration should also be given to users with low vision, who may require even higher contrast ratios. The color should be used sparingly, mainly to highlight a feature and not as the primary UI color.
Minimalist Interior Accent
In interior design, #001616 could be used as an accent color in a room with a minimalist design aesthetic. It could be applied to a feature wall or used in small decorative elements to add depth without overwhelming the space. When using this color, consider the lighting conditions of the room, as the dark shade can absorb light. It is recommended to pair it with lighter, contrasting colors to create visual interest and prevent the room from feeling too dark or somber. This would improve the esthetic of the room.
Subtle Fashion Detailing
In fashion, #001616 could be incorporated into clothing designs as a subtle base color or used for detailing. It can serve as a neutral foundation upon which other colors and textures are layered. For example, it could be used in a textured fabric to add depth and visual interest. Or it can be used as a background color for a pattern. When incorporating the color it is important to consider the overall silhouette and ensure that the color complements the wearer's complexion. The color is especially useful for clothing worn at night.