Holly
General Information about #031812
#031812, also known as Holly, is a very dark shade of green, bordering on black. It evokes feelings of nature, earthiness, and sophistication, but its darkness means it should be used carefully in design. The hexadecimal color code #031812 is composed of 1.18% red, 9.41% green, and 7.06% blue. In the RGB color space, it has very low values, contributing to its deep and muted appearance. The color is often associated with winter, particularly with the holly plant's deep green leaves and red berries. In color psychology, dark greens can represent wealth, stability, and growth, but their darkness requires balancing with lighter, brighter colors to avoid a somber or depressing effect. Careful use of lighting is key to showcase this color effectively.
The color #031812, a very dark, muted green, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially regarding color contrast. When used as a background, foreground text must be very light (e.g., white or very pale yellow) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. This dark shade likely struggles to meet these ratios with many common text colors. Designers should carefully evaluate the contrast ratio using accessibility tools and consider providing alternative color schemes for users with visual impairments. Overlooking color contrast can exclude users with low vision or color blindness, making content unusable for a significant portion of the audience. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize accessibility when using such dark colors in digital interfaces.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #132822
A slightly lighter shade of green that provides better contrast and visibility, while still maintaining a nature-inspired feel.
- #333333
A muted gray that offers a neutral backdrop and works well with brighter accent colors, ensuring readability and visual balance.
- #0A281A
This dark green color is slightly brighter and offers better contrast when used as text on a white background.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #031812 can be used sparingly for elements where subtlety is key, such as thin borders, dark mode accents, or as a background for small, high-contrast elements. However, it should be avoided for large text blocks or important interactive elements due to accessibility concerns. Consider pairing it with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and usability. This color is suitable for creating a sophisticated and understated feel, especially in themes related to nature, luxury, or minimalism, but careful consideration must be given to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all users.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, #031812 could be used for wall paint in a dimly lit room to create a cozy and enveloping atmosphere. It could also be applied to furniture upholstery for a sophisticated touch. Accent pieces in brighter, contrasting colors would be necessary to prevent the space from feeling too dark and monotonous. The color can also be used in smaller decorative elements, such as vases or picture frames, to add depth and richness to the overall design. Consider material choices that reflect light well to counteract the darkness of the color and enhance the room's ambiance.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #031812 can be used in formal wear, such as evening gowns or suits, to create a sophisticated and elegant look. Accessorizing with metallic or jewel-toned elements can enhance the outfit's appeal. This color is most suited for fall and winter collections, evoking a sense of depth and richness. When used as a base color, contrasting accessories, like scarves or jewelry, can make the outfit more interesting and visually appealing. Additionally, pairing it with lighter fabrics can add lightness and balance to the overall look.