Black Pearl
General Information about Black Pearl (#011A26)
The hex color #011A26, also known as Black Pearl, is a very dark, almost black shade with subtle hints of blue. It belongs to the family of very dark grayish-blue colors, offering a sophisticated and understated aesthetic. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.4% red, 10.2% green, and 14.9% blue. Its CMYK representation is 97% cyan, 31% magenta, 0% yellow, and 85% black. This color evokes a sense of depth, mystery, and elegance, reminiscent of deep-sea pearls or a starless night sky. It can be used to create a serious, sophisticated, and modern feel in various design applications. Due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter colors for contrast and readability.
The hex color #011A26, also known as Black Pearl, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially concerning text contrast. Its extremely dark nature means that only the lightest text colors (approaching white) will provide sufficient contrast for readability. Using standard black or dark gray text on a background of #011A26 is strongly discouraged due to the high risk of visual impairment for users, particularly those with low vision or color blindness. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. In many cases, a background of #011A26 will necessitate a very light text color to meet these standards. Consider alternative, lighter background colors or using CSS filters to lighten #011A26 when contrast is insufficient. Careful testing with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure compliance and inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0a2432
A slightly lighter shade that still retains a dark, sophisticated feel but offers improved contrast with white text.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides better readability than pure black and is more versatile for text and UI elements.
- #003366
A dark blue that offers a similar depth while allowing for better contrast with lighter shades.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Black Pearl (#011A26) can be effectively utilized in website headers and footers to establish a sense of sophistication and visual grounding. The dark hue provides a solid base for lighter text and navigation elements, ensuring they stand out. However, it's crucial to use appropriate contrast ratios for accessibility. This color is well-suited for tech, finance, or corporate websites aiming for a modern, professional aesthetic. Employing subtle animations or gradients can enhance the visual interest without compromising readability. Careful consideration of surrounding colors and typography is essential to maintain a balanced and accessible design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Pearl (#011A26) can be used as an accent color on walls or furniture to create a dramatic and luxurious feel. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, as well as with lighter, contrasting colors such as off-white or beige. When using this color in a room, ensure that there is adequate lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dark and enclosed. It is an excellent choice for feature walls, statement furniture pieces, or even as a color for trim and moldings to add depth and character to a room.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Black Pearl (#011A26) can be used as a base color for garments to create a sleek and elegant look. It works well for evening wear, outerwear, and accessories. Combining it with brighter colors or textures can create interesting visual contrasts. This color is suitable for creating minimalist, modern designs or adding a touch of sophistication to more elaborate outfits. Consider using it in materials like silk or velvet to enhance its luxurious feel, and ensure that accessories and embellishments complement rather than clash with its dark tone.