Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
Blue Charcoal, represented by the hexadecimal color code #011415, is a very dark shade of blue. It leans heavily towards black, with subtle undertones of blue and green. This color is often associated with sophistication, calmness, and depth. In color theory, it's considered a cool color, evoking feelings of tranquility and stability. Due to its low luminance, Blue Charcoal is best used as an accent color or paired with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and visual clarity. It is commonly used in designs where a subtle, understated elegance is desired. The RGB values are R:1, G:20, B:21, which confirms the dominance of black with slight tints of blue and green. Its very low saturation makes it appear almost monochromatic.
The color #011415, 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. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. Using #011415 for text or interactive elements against a light background would likely fail WCAG AA and AAA standards. To improve accessibility, web developers should avoid using this color for text or interactive elements unless paired with a very light color to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using color contrast analyzers to verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information; supplement it with text labels or other visual cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0a2429
A slightly lighter shade of blue can provide a better contrast ratio while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray can provide a neutral alternative that works well with a variety of other colors.
- #004050
A dark teal offers a similar depth but with a hint of green to add visual interest.
Applications
Interior Design: Calming Ambiance
Blue Charcoal is ideal for creating a sophisticated and calming ambiance in bedrooms or living rooms. It can be used as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery to add depth and elegance to the space. This color pairs well with lighter neutrals and metallic accents to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Avoid using it in small, poorly lit rooms as it can make the space feel smaller and darker. In larger spaces, it can serve as a grounding color that complements brighter, more vibrant hues.
Web Design: Background Color
In web design, Blue Charcoal can be used as a background color for headers or footers to create a sense of sophistication and professionalism. When using it for text, ensure sufficient contrast with a light-colored font to maintain readability. It is well-suited for websites in the technology, finance, or luxury industries where a sense of authority and trust is desired. It can also be effective in creating a dark mode version of a website to reduce eye strain for users in low-light environments. However, be cautious about overusing this color, as too much dark can make a site feel heavy and uninviting.
Fashion: Elegant Clothing
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be used for elegant evening wear or sophisticated business attire. It offers a versatile alternative to black and can be paired with various colors to create different looks. It's often used in outerwear, such as coats and jackets, as well as accessories like scarves and hats. Blue Charcoal works well with both warm and cool colors, allowing for a wide range of styling options. It's a popular choice for creating a polished and understated look.