Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
The hex color #030E17, commonly referred to as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue with subtle charcoal undertones. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.18% red, 5.49% green, and 9.02% blue. The color is often associated with sophistication, tranquility, and understated elegance. In smaller proportions, it can be used to create shadows or define lines. Its muted nature makes it a good choice for backgrounds or elements where the focus should be on other, brighter components. Due to its low brightness value, it's rarely used as a primary color on its own, as it tends to absorb light and appear nearly black in some conditions.
The hex color #030E17, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. The contrast ratio against a standard white background is very poor, making text and interface elements nearly invisible to users, especially those with visual impairments. It's crucial to avoid using this color for text or interactive elements without providing a very light foreground color to ensure sufficient contrast, adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is highly recommended. Consider using contrast checker tools to validate accessibility. The color can be used for decorative purposes where the readability is not important.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #131e27
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar dark, muted feel.
- #222222
A dark grey that provides better readability against light backgrounds.
- #36454F
This color is more similar to charcoal with a hint of blue. It is useful for creating backgrounds, shadows, or subtle color gradients.
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
In web design, Blue Charcoal can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or footers, particularly when aiming for a dark mode aesthetic. It provides a subdued backdrop that allows brighter elements to stand out. When paired with a contrasting text color such as a pastel yellow or light grey, the readability is enhanced. Further, it is suitable for creating a night-themed user interface for mobile applications.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be utilized to create a calming and modern atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It's well-suited for accent walls or furniture upholstery, especially when combined with lighter, warmer colors to balance the darkness. This color can be also implemented in commercial spaces, such as bars or clubs for a subtle and relaxing environment.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be used in creating elegant and versatile clothing pieces. It serves as an alternative to black, offering a softer and more nuanced look. Perfect for dresses, jackets, or trousers, this color works well with a variety of textures and can be paired with brighter accessories for a stylish contrast. It's often used in minimalist designs, offering a touch of sophistication without being too overpowering.