Blue Charcoal
General Information
The hex color #030915, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue. It's composed of 1.18% red, 3.53% green, and 8.24% blue. In the RGB color space, it is very close to black. The color is often associated with feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. In terms of color theory, blue charcoal falls under the cool color category, making it a versatile choice for creating a calming or contemplative atmosphere. It is a popular choice for backgrounds and accents in graphic design, web design, and interior decoration. However, designers must use lighter colors to contrast and make the content readable. Because of its depth, it can also be associated with wealth.
The color #030915, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in a very low contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to perceive text or graphical elements rendered in this color. To ensure inclusivity, especially for users with low vision or color blindness, it is crucial to pair this color with much lighter hues. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for larger text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. Furthermore, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; supplement it with labels, icons, or other visual cues to ensure that the content remains accessible to all users. Careful consideration during the design phase is necessary to mitigate potential accessibility barriers associated with this dark shade.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #131925
A slightly lighter shade of blue provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #232935
A dark gray offers a neutral alternative that can be paired with brighter accent colors for improved accessibility.
- #333945
Using a lighter blue tone is generally a good option, and improves readability on white backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Blue Charcoal (#030915) can be used to create a sophisticated and modern feel, particularly for backgrounds or headers. However, due to its darkness, it's essential to pair it with light-colored text or elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It is often used in the technology or finance industries to convey trust and stability. Also, this color can create a nighttime vibe for gaming and music application interfaces.
Interior Design
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can serve as a bold and grounding color for walls or furniture. It creates a sense of depth and drama, especially when combined with lighter, contrasting colors such as cream, gold, or even brighter blues. It works well in spaces where a sense of calmness and sophistication is desired, such as bedrooms or studies. It can also be used as an accent color, for example, in decorative pillows or throws, to add a touch of elegance to a space.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Blue Charcoal can be used as a versatile neutral alternative to black. It works well in both casual and formal wear, and can be paired with a variety of colors and textures. It is often used in outerwear, such as coats and jackets, as well as in pants, skirts, and dresses. When used in accessories, such as scarves or handbags, it can add a touch of sophistication to an outfit. It's a color that can be worn year-round, making it a wardrobe staple.