Blue Charcoal
General Information about #031314
The hexadecimal color code #031314 represents a very dark shade of cyan-blue, commonly referred to as Blue Charcoal. It is composed of 1.18% red, 7.45% green, and 7.84% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined as (3, 19, 20). This color has a low saturation and luminance, making it appear almost black. Blue Charcoal is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and depth. It is frequently used in designs where a subtle, understated elegance is desired. This color tends to evoke a sense of calmness and can be used as a background color when paired with lighter accents, but attention must be paid to accessibility guidelines.
The hex color #031314, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance value of 0.006 makes it difficult to read against most background colors, including white. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, this color should be used sparingly, and always paired with a very light color to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using contrast checking tools during web development to verify compliance. Avoid using this color for crucial interactive elements such as links or buttons without proper contrast enhancement.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1c2e2f
A slightly lighter shade of charcoal blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #364549
A dark grayish-blue that offers improved readability without deviating too far from the original color's muted tone.
- #002030
A deeper navy blue which provides a darker aesthetic with still enough contrast to maintain accessibility.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #031314 can be used as a background color for website sections or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, it should always be paired with high-contrast text colors like white or light gray to ensure readability. It can also be effectively used for subtle UI elements like dividers or borders. Its dark nature makes it suitable for dark-themed websites or applications, providing a visually comfortable experience for users in low-light environments. This color works well for creating a professional and subdued atmosphere.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to add a touch of elegance and modernity to a space. It pairs well with lighter neutrals like beige or gray, as well as brighter accent colors like mustard yellow or teal. This color can also be used in smaller doses in decorative items such as cushions, throws, or artwork to create a cohesive and sophisticated look. It can effectively establish a calming and sophisticated ambiance in bedrooms, living rooms, or offices.
Fashion
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be utilized in clothing designs for creating elegant, mysterious or chic styles. Consider a formal dark dress, or a dark casual shirt which is then accented with a bright coloured logo or design element. The hex color can also be applied to accessories, shoes, and combined with different styles to express individuality.