Blue Charcoal
General Information
The color #060C14, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue-gray. It belongs to the family of dark neutral colors, often associated with sophistication, calmness, and a sense of depth. Its hexadecimal representation, #060C14, indicates the specific combination of red, green, and blue light that creates this particular hue. The color is perceived as muted and subtle, making it suitable for backgrounds or accents where a strong color statement is not desired. Its dark nature means it absorbs a significant amount of light, contributing to a sense of enclosure or intimacy in spaces where it is used. In color psychology, dark blues are often linked to trust, reliability, and professionalism. The color is widely available in different color palettes, however the usage requires consideration of brightness.
The hex color #060C14, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. With such a dark shade, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with any text or interactive elements placed on top of it. A light color should be used for text to ensure readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using #060C14 as a background color necessitates careful selection of foreground colors to meet these contrast requirements. Consider using color contrast checkers to verify accessibility. Also, avoid using this color for essential visual information if users might have low vision or color blindness. Providing alternative cues like icons or text labels can further enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e293b
A slightly lighter shade of gray-blue can provide a similar aesthetic while improving contrast and readability.
- #000810
A darker, almost black color that ensures better text contrast when using lighter text.
- #203040
A muted blue that is slightly brighter and can be used if the original color is too dark
Applications
Website Backgrounds and Headers
In web design, #060C14 can be used for website backgrounds or header sections to give a professional and sophisticated feel. However, it's important to pair it with light-colored text and elements to ensure readability and a positive user experience. It can be used in combination with lighter grays and blues to create a modern aesthetic, commonly used in tech company websites or portfolios. This dark shade can effectively highlight call-to-action buttons if they are designed in a contrasting color. Further, consider using it in dark mode themes to reduce eye strain in low-light environments.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, #060C14 evokes a sense of calm and sophistication, making it suitable for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, and can be combined with natural materials like wood or stone to add warmth and texture. The color can be used in home theaters to minimize light reflection and enhance the viewing experience. When using this color, make sure to balance it with brighter colors or lighter neutrals to prevent the room from feeling too dark or enclosed. The color works well with ambient lighting.
Fashion Apparel Base Color
In fashion, Blue Charcoal can be used as a base color for outfits, providing a neutral backdrop for bolder accessories or statement pieces. It can be used in formal wear, such as suits or dresses, to give a sophisticated and understated appearance. The color works well with both warm and cool tones, allowing for versatile styling options. It could be used for coats and scarfs and also for less casual wear.