Midnight
General Information about #051731
The hexadecimal color code #051731, also known as Midnight, represents a very dark shade of blue, almost approaching black. It is composed of 2% red, 9% green, and 19.2% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 5 red, 23 green, and 49 blue. The corresponding CMYK color code is 90% cyan, 53% magenta, 0% yellow, and 81% black. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, sophistication, and mystery. Its low saturation and dark luminance make it suitable for backgrounds and situations where a subtle, unobtrusive color is desired. It is frequently used in digital design, fashion, and interior decorating to evoke a sense of depth and elegance.
The color #051731, also known as Midnight, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against lighter backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to read text or discern elements using this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. Midnight falls far short of these recommendations when paired with common background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors such as white, off-white, or light gray. Careful adjustment is required to achieve sufficient contrast and comply with accessibility standards, ensuring inclusivity for all users. The dark nature also means it shouldn't be used for interactive elements without considering the change of state.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e293b
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still offers a deep, calming aesthetic but provides improved contrast against light backgrounds.
- #333333
A dark gray that offers a neutral alternative while maintaining a sophisticated and understated appearance.
- #12233f
This shade provides a touch of warmth, making it a more inviting alternative without sacrificing depth.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Midnight is often used in website backgrounds to create a sophisticated and calming user experience. It pairs well with lighter text colors like white or cream. For example, a portfolio website may use #051731 as a full-screen background, showcasing a designer's work with a touch of elegance. Furthermore, it can be used in headers and footers to provide a clear visual structure to the page. Combining it with subtle animations or parallax effects can elevate the user experience, adding depth and visual interest without overwhelming the user. The subdued nature of the color makes it suitable for professional services or corporate sites, conveying trust and stability.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Midnight is a popular choice for evening wear and formal attire. It evokes a sense of mystery and sophistication, making it perfect for dresses, suits, and accessories. Designers often use this color to create slimming silhouettes and highlight textures, such as velvet or silk. For example, a midnight blue velvet dress can be both elegant and timeless. It also works well as an accent color in shoes or handbags, adding a touch of understated luxury to an outfit. Midnight is a versatile color that complements a wide range of skin tones and can be paired with both warm and cool colors.
Interior Design
In interior design, Midnight can be used to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It's often applied to walls in bedrooms or home theaters to reduce light and enhance relaxation. Dark walls can also make a room feel larger by blurring the edges and creating a sense of depth. To prevent the space from feeling too dark, it's important to balance it with lighter furniture and accessories, such as white sofas, light wood accents, or metallic decor. Consider using it as an accent color in rugs, curtains, or throw pillows to add a touch of drama and sophistication to a living room or study.