Ebony
General Information about Ebony
The hex color #080A18, commonly referred to as Ebony, is a very dark shade of blue-black. It resides within the dark end of the color spectrum, possessing minimal luminance and saturation. This color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and elegance. In terms of color theory, Ebony is considered a neutral tone, lending itself well to various design applications. Its composition consists of a low proportion of red (08), a slightly higher proportion of green (0A), and a moderate proportion of blue (18) in hexadecimal representation. It's important to note that due to its darkness, Ebony can present challenges related to accessibility and contrast, especially when used with lighter text or interface elements, requiring careful consideration in design implementations.
The hex color #080A18, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its extremely low luminance results in poor contrast against standard light-colored text or user interface elements. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ebony falls far short of these recommendations, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to perceive content accurately. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair Ebony with much lighter colors that provide sufficient contrast. Utilizing tools to assess color contrast ratios is essential for ensuring that websites and applications meet accessibility standards and provide an inclusive experience for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Failure to address contrast issues can result in a frustrating and unusable experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer a similar aesthetic while improving readability and contrast.
A dark desaturated blue can bring some color while remaining subtle and professional.
This color is lighter and provides better contrast than the original, while maintaining a dark theme.
Applications
Website Design
Ebony, with its deep and mysterious hue, can be skillfully applied in website design to create a sophisticated and immersive user experience. It's particularly effective as a background color for sections intended to evoke a sense of luxury, exclusivity, or intrigue. For example, a portfolio website showcasing high-end products or a landing page for a premium service could leverage Ebony to establish a refined atmosphere. However, careful attention must be paid to contrast. Light-colored typography and prominent interactive elements should be implemented to ensure readability and usability against the dark backdrop, guiding visitors through the content with ease.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Ebony serves as a powerful accent color, injecting depth and drama into a space. It's commonly employed for feature walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative elements like cushions and throws. The color's inherent darkness absorbs light, creating a cozy and intimate ambiance. To balance the intensity of Ebony, it's essential to pair it with lighter, reflective materials such as polished metals, glass, or pale wood tones. This combination prevents the room from feeling too heavy or enclosed, allowing the Ebony accents to stand out as focal points while maintaining an overall sense of harmony and spaciousness.
Fashion
Ebony is a versatile color in fashion, often used for creating sleek and sophisticated looks. It can be used as the primary color for evening wear, such as dresses or suits, creating an elegant and timeless style. When using Ebony in fashion, consider the fabric's texture and how it interacts with light. Pair it with metallic accessories or brighter accent colors to add visual interest and prevent the outfit from looking too somber. Ebony can also be used as a contrasting color in patterns or trims, adding depth and sophistication to the design.