Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
Blue Charcoal, represented by the hexadecimal color code #051118, is a very dark shade of blue-gray. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2% red, 7% green, and 9% blue. Its darkness makes it appear almost black, making it useful for creating a sophisticated or understated aesthetic. The color is often associated with calmness, stability, and a sense of depth. In color psychology, dark blues can evoke feelings of trust and authority, while also promoting a sense of peace and relaxation. Due to its low luminance, Blue Charcoal is best used sparingly or combined with lighter colors to ensure readability and visual balance. It is a versatile color that can be incorporated into various design applications, from web development to interior design, providing a grounding and elegant touch.
The color #051118, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. With extremely low contrast against standard white text, readability is severely compromised for individuals with visual impairments. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Blue Charcoal falls far short of these recommendations, making it difficult for users with low vision or color blindness to perceive content. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors such as white or very light grays. Alternatively, employing Blue Charcoal sparingly for decorative elements rather than essential information can minimize accessibility issues. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color combinations to meet WCAG standards, ensuring a more inclusive user experience. Careful consideration of color contrast is paramount in web design to provide equitable access to information for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a242f
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer a similar dark aesthetic while improving readability against white text.
- #0a2229
A dark teal provides a similar deep tone but introduces a subtle hint of color, potentially enhancing visual interest without sacrificing too much contrast.
- #000000
Black offers maximum contrast when placed with white and can also be used as an alternative to this dark blue charcoal.
Applications
Website Backgrounds and UI Elements
Blue Charcoal, #051118, lends itself well to creating sophisticated and moody website designs. It can be used as a background color for sections intended to evoke a sense of depth or mystery, such as portfolio showcases or testimonials. When paired with light typography, it creates a striking visual contrast that draws the viewer's attention. However, careful attention to color contrast is essential for accessibility, so lighter shades of text are recommended. The color can also be used for UI elements, such as buttons or navigation bars, to create a cohesive and visually appealing user experience, provided sufficient contrast is maintained for readability. Its dark and neutral tone makes it an excellent canvas for showcasing vibrant accent colors.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Blue Charcoal serves as an elegant and grounding base for various design styles. It can be used as a wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Complementary colors like warm grays, beige, or soft blues can be incorporated through furniture, textiles, and accessories to add visual interest and balance the deep tone. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a sense of organic sophistication. This color can also be utilized in smaller doses, such as on accent walls or in cabinetry, to add depth and dimension to a space without overwhelming it.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be used as a neutral base color for creating versatile and sophisticated outfits. Garments in this color, such as trousers, skirts, or jackets, can be easily paired with a wide range of colors and styles, making them a staple in any wardrobe. It's especially suitable for creating elegant and understated looks. Accessorizing with lighter colors or metallic elements can add a touch of glamour to the overall ensemble. Furthermore, it is a popular choice for formal wear as an alternative to black.