Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
The hexadecimal color code #040816, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue, almost appearing black. It is composed of 1.57% red, 3.14% green, and 8.63% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as RGB(4, 8, 22). This color is frequently used to evoke feelings of sophistication, elegance, and mystery due to its deep and subdued nature. In the context of additive color mixing, this color is formed by a minimal contribution of each of the primary colors. Blue Charcoal is often found in design palettes aiming for a dark, rich aesthetic, though care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast when used with text or other design elements.
The color #040816, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely dark nature. With very low contrast against white text, it fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. Specifically, the contrast ratio is far below the recommended 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, using #040816 as a background color with light text or as a text color on a light background without careful consideration can exclude users with visual impairments. Designers and developers should avoid using this color for essential text or interactive elements. If the color is crucial for branding, ensure sufficient contrast is achieved through other visual cues or complementary colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #141826
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark, sophisticated feel.
- #242836
A deep gray that offers improved readability and accessibility compared to Blue Charcoal.
- #0a0e1e
This very dark blue offers a slightly improved contrast ratio while maintaining a similar visual aesthetic.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Blue Charcoal can be used sparingly for non-essential decorative elements or as a background for hero sections where readability is less critical, but visual impact is desired. Ensure all text or interactive elements placed on this background have sufficient contrast. It can also be effectively utilized to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Employ the color for elements like dividing lines, subtle patterns, or as an accent within a larger palette that emphasizes lighter, more accessible colors for main content areas.
Interior Design
In interior design, Blue Charcoal brings a touch of elegance and drama to spaces. It's suitable for accent walls in living rooms, studies, or bedrooms where a moody ambiance is desired. When incorporating this color, ensure balanced lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Pair it with lighter neutrals like creams, grays, or whites to create contrast and prevent the space from feeling oppressive. Consider using metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its luxurious feel. It's best suited for spaces designed for relaxation and contemplation.
Fashion
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be a versatile alternative to black. It is perfect for evening wear or sophisticated casual attire. Its dark, muted tone works well with a variety of fabrics and can be easily paired with brighter or more neutral colors. The color lends a subtle sophistication and can be used for key pieces like jackets, trousers, or dresses. Accessories in complementary colors can add a pop of visual interest.