Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
The hex color #041017, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue. It is composed of 1.57% red, 6.27% green, and 9.02% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as RGB(4, 16, 23). This color is often associated with sophistication, depth, and tranquility. Its almost-black appearance makes it suitable for backgrounds and accents where a subtle yet impactful visual effect is desired. In the HSL color space, #041017 has a hue of 205 degrees, a saturation of 68.8%, and a lightness of 5.3%. The low lightness value contributes to its dark and muted nature. Blue Charcoal is frequently used in design to evoke a sense of calm and understated elegance. The color is part of the darker color spectrum.
The hex color #041017, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as either text or background, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the opposing color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A light text on this dark background is highly recommended. The use of tools that measure contrast ratios is essential to verify compliance with accessibility benchmarks. For users with visual impairments, low contrast can render content illegible. Therefore, pairing #041017 with brighter hues or adding visual cues like borders or icons can improve the user experience. Avoiding subtle shades of gray or muted colors as text on this background is advisable. Providing alternative color schemes is also beneficial for users with specific visual preferences or needs. Careful consideration during design is paramount to ensure inclusivity and usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #142027
A slightly lighter shade of blue charcoal, offering improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #222222
A dark gray that provides a neutral backdrop with better readability when paired with light text.
- #000000
A deeper shade of black, which will provide maximum contrast when using lighter colors on it.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #041017 can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or footers, providing a sleek and modern look. It is also great in combination with neumorphism. Ensure the text placed on it is highly contrasting for readability. Avoid using it for large blocks of text due to its low contrast nature. It will work great for elements, like buttons, where a hover effect can be implemented to highlight the element.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #041017 can be used as an accent wall color in a contemporary space, creating a calming yet stylish atmosphere. Pair it with lighter furniture and metallic accents to balance the darkness. Avoid using it in smaller spaces as it may make them feel cramped. Consider using it in combination with plants to improve the atmosphere in the room.
Fashion Color
In the fashion industry, Blue Charcoal (#041017) presents a versatile and elegant option for creating sophisticated and understated apparel. Its deep, muted tone can be used to design elegant dresses, smart coats, or even as a grounding color in patterned textiles. Pairing it with lighter, complementary colors such as cream or light gray can create a striking visual contrast. It is also very suitalble for menswear, like trousers, shirts or suits.