Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
The hex color #031218, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of cyan-blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.18% red, 7.06% green, and 9.41% blue. Its primary characteristic is its extremely low luminance, making it appear almost black. This color is often associated with sophistication, depth, and calmness. It is more common in design fields that prefer dark or muted aesthetics. Blue Charcoal is not a particularly vibrant color, but it possesses a subtle complexity due to its underlying blue tones. It may be perceived as cool or neutral, depending on the surrounding colors and context. It is often seen in modern and minimalist designs where a sense of understated elegance is desired.
The hex color #031218, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its contrast ratio against a standard white background is very poor, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to distinguish text or graphical elements rendered in this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) require sufficient contrast ratios to ensure readability and usability. Therefore, using #031218 for text or important interface elements is strongly discouraged without careful consideration of contrast. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair #031218 with very light colors to achieve an acceptable contrast ratio, or to avoid using it for critical content altogether. Tools such as contrast checkers can assist in determining appropriate color pairings to meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design (Background)
In web design, #031218 can be used sparingly as a background color for specific sections where high contrast is not essential, such as decorative headers or footers. It can create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, it should never be used for body text or interactive elements without ensuring sufficient contrast with the foreground elements. When used in conjunction with very light accents and careful attention to typography, #031218 can contribute to a visually appealing and modern website design. This is especially relevant for creating a dark theme or a section in dark mode.
Interior Design (Accent Color)
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with lighter, warmer tones like cream, beige, or light wood finishes. Consider using it in rooms where relaxation is key, such as bedrooms or studies. However, ensure that the room has ample natural light or is well-lit with artificial light to prevent it from feeling too dark and dreary. Use it for decorative elements such as cushions, throws, or artwork, to add depth and contrast to a lighter color palette.
Fashion (Garments)
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be used for garments to create a sleek and elegant look. It's a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for both formal and casual occasions. It pairs well with various colors, including whites, grays, and even bolder shades like burgundy or mustard yellow. Consider using it for outerwear, such as jackets or coats, or for tailored pieces like trousers or skirts. Accessorize with lighter colors to create contrast and prevent the outfit from appearing too dark.