Cod Gray
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #060709 represents a very dark shade of gray, often referred to as "Cod Gray" due to its similarity to the color of codfish skin. It is composed of 2.4% red, 2.7% green, and 3.5% blue. In the RGB color model, it is equivalent to (6, 7, 9). The color's almost black appearance is due to its extremely low values across all three color channels. Colors like these are typically perceived as neutral and can evoke feelings of somberness, sophistication, or mystery, depending on the context. In the HSV color space, it has a hue angle of 210 degrees, a saturation of 33.3%, and a value of 4%. The CMYK representation is C:33, M:22, Y:0, K:96. This color is primarily used to generate darker shades on various applications.
The color #060709, also known as Cod Gray, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds is critically low, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to discern text or user interface elements rendered in this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Cod Gray falls far short of these recommendations, potentially excluding users with low vision, color blindness, or age-related vision loss. Designers should avoid using this color for text or essential interactive elements unless paired with a very light background to achieve adequate contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help ensure compliance with accessibility standards and improve the user experience for everyone. Consideration should be given to providing alternative high-contrast themes or allowing users to customize color schemes to meet their individual needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a1a1a
A slightly lighter gray that offers improved contrast while maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark charcoal color that provides better readability compared to #060709.
- #555555
An alternative color to provide better readability, it is a brighter color but still falls into the grayscale colors.
Applications
Minimalist Website Accents
In minimalist website designs, #060709 can be employed sparingly as a background accent for specific sections or to highlight design elements. However, its use should be carefully considered, ensuring that all text and interactive elements placed on this background have sufficient contrast for accessibility. It may be more suitable for decorative purposes or in conjunction with lighter grays to create depth and visual interest. In user interface (UI) design, #060709 can act as a subtle separator between different sections of an application, contributing to a clean and organized layout. The key is to use it judiciously and prioritize readability and usability above all else, making sure to not hinder the accessibility.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, #060709 can be used as a base color for clothing or accessories, especially when aiming for a sophisticated and understated look. It pairs well with brighter colors to create contrast or with other shades of gray for a monochromatic ensemble. In interior design, this color can be used for wall paint in rooms where a dark and cozy atmosphere is desired, such as a home theater or a study. It also can be used for furniture or decor elements to add depth and contrast to a lighter color scheme. When designing user interfaces, it can be used in places where no direct interaction is required such as backgrounds.
Beauty and Branding
As part of a makeup collection, #060709 can be found in eyeshadow palettes to create depth and definition around the eyes or as eyeliner for a very subtle and understated look. This is due to the dark and muted shade, which will add a subtle touch to the face without attracting attention. When used appropriately, the color can add a touch of mystery to the face. In other applications, such as creating logos and other branding material, the hexadecimal color can be used as a backdrop for other more flashy colors, creating a contrast.