Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal (#010B13)
The hex color code #010B13 represents a very dark shade of blue, often referred to as Blue Charcoal. It is composed of 0.4% red, 4.3% green, and 7.5% blue. In the RGB color model, this equates to R:1, G:11, B:19. The corresponding CMYK values are C:95, M:42, Y:0, K:92. This color is generally associated with feelings of calmness, sophistication, and mystery. Its low luminance makes it a challenging color to use for text or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios. Blue Charcoal can be used to evoke a sense of depth and seriousness. It can create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic, making it a good choice for backgrounds or accents in designs seeking a touch of elegance.
The hex color #010B13, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. With such a dark shade, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used with text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. #010B13 will likely fail these contrast tests against many common background colors, including white. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors like white, light gray, or even light blue, and always test the contrast ratio with tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker. Avoid using this color for essential UI elements without ensuring adequate contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0a192f
A slightly lighter shade that retains the dark, muted feel but provides better contrast.
- #001c30
A deeper, richer blue that offers a bit more visual interest while remaining relatively dark.
- #121821
A less saturated alternative that may blend better with certain color palettes, while ensuring better readability for texts.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, Blue Charcoal can be used for website backgrounds to create a dark and modern aesthetic. It's particularly effective for tech-related websites or portfolios aiming for a sophisticated feel. However, it requires careful selection of foreground colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of gray or white for text and interactive elements. Be sure to conduct accessibility tests to ensure your design meets WCAG contrast requirements. Also the background color for web applications can be an excellent choice.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to create a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms where a calming and relaxing environment is desired. Pair it with lighter colors and warm textures to balance the coolness of the blue. Use it sparingly, as too much dark color can make a space feel small and claustrophobic. It's especially effective when used in combination with natural light and greenery.
Fashion and Apparel
Blue charcoal provides a great color for fashion, particularly for items intended to appear professional but not as strict as using full black. It would serve as an excellent material for suits, coats, or dresses. Consider using accessories and textiles in complementary, brighter colors to achieve a well-rounded balance.