Blue Charcoal

General Information about Blue Charcoal

The hex color #040D16, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue, almost appearing black to the naked eye. It belongs to the blue color family, though its low luminance value gives it a muted and subdued appearance. This color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and elegance. In color theory, Blue Charcoal can evoke feelings of calmness and stability, while also conveying a sense of seriousness and depth. Its near-black quality makes it a versatile color for backgrounds and accents, but it requires careful consideration of contrast to ensure readability and accessibility. The hex code #040D16 is composed of 2.5% red, 5.1% green, and 8.6% blue, with a saturation of 54% and a lightness of 5.5%.

The hex color #040D16, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in very low contrast against typical light backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to discern text or graphical elements. According to WCAG guidelines, this color would likely fail many contrast ratio tests, especially for small text or icons. To improve accessibility, it is essential to pair #040D16 with much lighter colors, ensuring a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using tools to check contrast ratios is highly recommended during the design process to guarantee compliance with accessibility standards and ensure usability for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Background

  In web design, #040D16 can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites targeting a mature audience or those in the tech or finance industries. When used sparingly, it can create a sense of depth and seriousness, especially when paired with complementary accent colors like gold or a muted yellow. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain readability and accessibility. Consider using it for headers, footers, or as a background for graphical elements rather than extensive blocks of text. Proper attention to contrast ratios is paramount to ensure a positive user experience.

• Interior Design Accent

  In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be used to create a calming and elegant atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works exceptionally well as an accent wall color, providing a dramatic backdrop for lighter furniture and décor. To avoid making the space feel too dark, it's essential to balance it with ample natural light and lighter, brighter colors in the surrounding elements. Metallic accents like silver or copper can also enhance the sophisticated feel and add a touch of luxury. Consider using it in combination with textures like velvet or silk to create a cozy and inviting space. It is also very well suited for minimalist design concepts where a dark, sophisticated undertone is required.

• Fashion Apparel

  In fashion, garments in #040D16 exude a sense of understated elegance and sophistication. It can be used for outer wear to invoke a sense of mystique. The color works well for formal attire, such as suits and dresses, providing a timeless and versatile option. It pairs well with both muted and vibrant accessories, allowing for a wide range of styling possibilities. When used in casual wear, it can add a touch of refinement to everyday outfits. The depth of the color makes it flattering for a variety of skin tones and can be styled to achieve a sleek and polished look. Also consider how this can be used in goth and dark fashion trends.

Complementary color

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