Midnight
General Information
#06152E, commonly referred to as Midnight, is a very dark shade of blue, almost appearing black to the untrained eye. It has a subtle, mysterious character which is why it is often used in designs requiring depth and sophistication. Midnight blue is frequently associated with calmness, trustworthiness, and stability, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional settings. The color is formed by a minimal amount of red (6), a low amount of green (21) and a medium amount of blue (46). The relative amounts of blue compared to red and green cause the blue appearance. The color is perceived as a dark color because the color components do not represent high values. It belongs to the family of dark colors.
The hex color #06152E, also known as Midnight, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its dark nature results in very low contrast against lighter backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to discern text or other elements rendered in this color. Web developers must carefully consider the contrast ratio when using #06152E. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. For normal text (14pt/18px and larger), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while for large text (18pt/24px and larger) and graphical elements, a ratio of 3:1 is necessary. Using #06152E as a primary text color is strongly discouraged unless paired with a very light background color such as white or a very pale yellow. Even then, testing with users who have visual impairments is essential to ensure usability. Providing alternative high-contrast themes is another way to enhance accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #162447
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #121214
A darker shade of gray can provide a more neutral base for designs where a dark color is needed.
- #20304F
This color provides a much better contrast ratio. It's still dark but more accessible.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #06152E can be used sparingly for background elements or accents, especially in designs aiming for a sophisticated or nocturnal feel. It’s well-suited for header or footer backgrounds, but always with very light text to ensure readability. It is also applicable for loading animations with light color elements for the user to see progress.
Fashion
In fashion, #06152E evokes feelings of elegance and mystery. It can be a great choice for formal wear or accessories, offering a deep and rich color that complements lighter fabrics. Used for high end fashion products like bags, wallets or shoes. It can be an excellent choice for evening gowns, dress suits and other apparel.
Interior Design
In interior design, #06152E can be used to create a calming and luxurious atmosphere. It is most effective in rooms with ample natural light, where its depth can be fully appreciated. It can be applied as wall paint, for furniture as well as for accessoires like vases or blankets. It's often combined with gold or silver elements.