Midnight
General Information about Midnight
The hex color #00172B, commonly known as Midnight, is a very dark shade of blue-black. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 8.63% green, and 16.86% blue. Its primary characteristic is its extremely low luminance, rendering it almost black to the human eye. This color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and elegance. In color psychology, dark blues like #00172B can evoke feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. However, its darkness can also suggest seriousness or formality. It is frequently utilized in designs aiming for a professional or high-end aesthetic. This color is used in graphic design to create a sense of depth and to make brighter colors stand out, and can be an important choice for branding that wants a subtle presence.
The hex color #00172B, also known as Midnight, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to perceive text or graphics rendered in this color. When using #00172B, it is crucial to pair it with very light foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast, ideally exceeding the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) recommended contrast ratios of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using online contrast checkers to verify compliance. Avoid using #00172B for critical information or interactive elements without careful consideration of its impact on users with low vision or color blindness. Providing alternative color schemes or allowing users to customize the color palette can also enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0a243f
A slightly lighter shade of blue-black, offering a touch more visibility while maintaining a dark and sophisticated aesthetic.
- #2f4f4f
A dark slate gray provides a neutral alternative that can work well with a variety of accent colors and is a bit lighter.
- #00334d
A deep, dark cyan that offers a hint of color while still remaining dark and subtle.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #00172B is often employed as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It can also be used for navigation menus or sidebars, providing a visually distinct area for important links. When used sparingly and paired with contrasting text, it adds a touch of elegance to the overall design. It works well for tech related sites and for sites that want a professional, serious feel.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Midnight can be used to create a dramatic and cozy atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It is suitable for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. When combined with warm lighting and soft textures, it exudes a sense of luxury and relaxation. It's often used in modern minimalist designs for a sophisticated flair.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Midnight can be used as a base color for formal wear or evening gowns, exuding elegance and sophistication. It also serves as an excellent backdrop for statement jewelry or accessories. When paired with lighter colors, it adds a touch of contrast and visual interest. It's a popular choice for creating timeless and versatile outfits.