Blue Charcoal
General Information about #040917
The hex color code #040917, often referred to as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue leaning towards black. It is composed of 1.57% red, 3.53% green, and 9.02% blue. In the RGB color space, it has the values (4, 9, 23). This color is frequently used in designs where a sense of depth, mystery, or sophistication is desired. Given its low luminance, #040917 works best as a background color with light-colored text or elements placed on top to provide sufficient contrast. It can also be used as an accent color in small amounts to add visual interest without overpowering the design. Blue Charcoal is often associated with professionalism, calmness, and stability, making it suitable for corporate branding and minimalist aesthetics.
The hex color #040917, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its contrast ratio against standard white (#FFFFFF) is very poor, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to discern text or important visual elements. For web content, this color should be avoided for primary text or interactive components. If used, it must be paired with a very light color to ensure sufficient contrast, ideally exceeding the WCAG AA minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using contrast checking tools during design and development. Furthermore, avoid using it as a background color behind lighter text unless the text size and weight are increased to improve readability. Non-text elements, like icons and graphical controls, also require careful consideration to ensure they meet accessibility standards when using this dark shade.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Background
In web design, #040917 can serve as a sophisticated background for header sections or footers, particularly when aiming for a modern and minimalist look. When utilizing this color, ensure that all text and interactive elements placed atop it are of a light hue to guarantee readability and user engagement. This is crucial for maintaining accessibility standards and preventing a poor user experience. Consider incorporating this shade sparingly, as an accent color, to create depth and visual interest without compromising the overall usability of the site. For example, use it for subtle hover effects or as a divider between content sections, always paired with adequate contrast.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Blue Charcoal (#040917) provides a grounding base for a space. It can be used on walls in a media room to minimize reflections from the screen, enhancing the viewing experience. Pair with lighter blues or grays for a complementary monochromatic scheme. The color can also work well in smaller doses; consider it for accent walls in bedrooms or home offices to evoke a sense of calm and concentration. Metals like brushed nickel or chrome will stand out against this dark backdrop, adding a touch of sophistication. Textiles in lighter shades with interesting textures will add comfort and balance the intensity of the dark color.
Fashion Design
In fashion design, the hex color #040917 presents a chic and understated option for creating clothing pieces that convey elegance and sophistication. Its deep, dark tone is ideal for crafting evening wear, such as dresses and suits, providing a slimming and refined silhouette. When paired with lighter shades of blue or grey, it can generate striking contrasts, emphasizing textures and details. Moreover, consider utilizing it as a base color for accessories like belts, shoes, or handbags, as it effortlessly complements a broad spectrum of color palettes. To enhance its allure, incorporate fabrics with subtle sheen or matte finishes, adding depth and visual appeal to the overall aesthetic.