Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
Blue Charcoal, represented by the hexadecimal color code #010719, is a very dark shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0.4% red, 2.7% green, and 9.8% blue. This composition explains its deep, muted appearance. The color is often associated with feelings of sophistication, mystery, and calmness, though its darkness can also evoke a sense of melancholy. Due to its low brightness and saturation, Blue Charcoal is not a particularly vibrant color. It is more commonly used as a background or accent color rather than a primary color, particularly in digital design. The color is considered part of the blue color family, though it is so dark that it often appears almost black. Its subtle blue undertones distinguish it from true black, giving it a unique character.
The color #010719, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value (very dark) results in poor contrast against most background colors, especially white. This lack of contrast makes text and other visual elements difficult to perceive. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Blue Charcoal falls far short of these recommendations when paired with lighter colors. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to use Blue Charcoal sparingly and only with very light foreground colors that provide sufficient contrast. Alternatively, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a completely different color palette to ensure readability and usability for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Proper testing with accessibility tools is strongly advised to validate color choices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0a1429
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast compared to #010719 while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A neutral gray that can provide a more accessible background color than #010719 when used for text elements.
- #101820
This darker desaturated blue maintains a similar visual feeling while improving contrast when used in combination with lighter colors.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Blue Charcoal (#010719) can be used in website design as a background color for sections where a dark and subtle aesthetic is desired. For example, it could be used in the footer or header of a website to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, it's crucial to ensure that any text or interactive elements placed on this background have sufficient contrast to meet accessibility standards. Consider using light text colors like white or very light grays to ensure readability. It can also be effective for creating a night mode or dark theme option for websites or applications, providing a more comfortable viewing experience in low-light environments. Be cautious about using this color for large blocks of text, as prolonged reading against a dark background can cause eye strain for some users.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Blue Charcoal (#010719) can be incorporated as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It can be used for painting a feature wall, choosing dark furniture pieces, or selecting decorative accessories. When using Blue Charcoal in interior design, it's essential to balance it with lighter and brighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark and somber. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of blue, gray, or white to create a harmonious and balanced aesthetic. Metallic accents like gold or silver can also complement Blue Charcoal and add a touch of luxury. The key is to use it strategically to enhance the overall design without overwhelming the space.
Fashion Design
Blue Charcoal (#010719) can be utilized in fashion design as a sophisticated and versatile color choice, often applied to create elegant evening wear or professional attire. As a base, Blue Charcoal looks well with silver or gold accessories, or a bright accent color. This creates an elegant design that can look subtle and professional. It is often used in suits or winter coats.