Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal (#020622)
The color #020622, commonly referred to as Blue Charcoal, is a deep, dark shade of blue with very low saturation and luminance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.8% red, 2.4% green, and 13.3% blue. This color falls under the category of dark blues and is often perceived as sophisticated, mysterious, and calming. It is frequently used in contexts where a sense of depth or formality is desired. Because of its darkness, it often requires careful consideration in design applications to ensure sufficient contrast and legibility when paired with other colors. Its hex code makes it easily representable in digital mediums, particularly in web design and graphic design software.
The hex color #020622, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its extremely low luminance value creates very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text rendered in this color. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color is far below those thresholds. To improve accessibility, it is strongly advised to pair #020622 with very light colors such as #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 to ensure sufficient contrast. When used as a background, light-colored text should be used. Also, avoid using it for essential interactive elements, unless accompanied by clear visual cues and alternative color schemes for high contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design (Dark Themes)
In web design, #020622 can be used sparingly for backgrounds in sections where a dark, sophisticated feel is desired. Its usage should be carefully considered to ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements, like text or icons. It is recommended to use it for decorative elements rather than essential information displays. Furthermore, it is suitable for creating a night mode theme or a dark user interface, provided that user preferences are respected and the interface offers an option to switch to a lighter theme for better accessibility. Consider using it in combination with lighter accent colors to highlight important elements and create visual interest.
Interior Design (Accent Color)
In interior design, #020622 can be utilized to create a calming and intimate atmosphere in spaces such as bedrooms or home theaters. It is best applied to accent walls or used in combination with lighter, contrasting colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark and enclosed. Textiles such as velvet or wool in this color can add a luxurious touch. Metallic accents, like gold or copper, can complement the dark blue hue and provide a balanced aesthetic. The color works well with natural light, so it's best suited for rooms that receive ample sunlight.
Fashion (Formal Wear)
In fashion, #020622 is suitable for creating elegant and understated looks. It can be used for formal wear, such as evening gowns or suits, or for casual wear such as sweaters or trousers. Because it is so dark, it pairs well with other dark colors. It can be combined with lighter, brighter colors for a striking contrast, or with metallic accessories to add a touch of glamour. Its versatility makes it ideal for creating both classic and modern styles. Consider combining with lighter materials to avoid a sense of heaviness.