Aztec
General Information about #081E20
The hex color #081E20, also known as Aztec, is a very dark, desaturated shade of cyan. It belongs to the dark shade family, with very low brightness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.14% red, 11.76% green, and 12.55% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 75% cyan, 6% magenta, 0% yellow, and 87% black. This color leans heavily towards the darker end of the spectrum, making it suitable for use as a background color or as an accent color in designs where a dark and muted tone is desired. It evokes a sense of sophistication and subtlety. The color is best used when you want to imply a sense of formality and authority in a design.
The color #081E20, a very dark desaturated cyan, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance (very close to black) means that text rendered in this color will have very poor contrast against most backgrounds, and vice versa. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Given #081E20's darkness, achieving these ratios requires using extremely light colors for text, which might strain the eyes. Therefore, using this color for text is strongly discouraged unless paired with a very light background color. Even then, careful testing with accessibility evaluation tools is crucial to ensure compliance and usability for all users, including those with visual impairments. Consider alternative, lighter shades or hues for improved readability and accessibility. Color vision deficiency simulators should be used to test the color combination.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design - Background
In web design, this color can be used as a subtle background for sections that require a dark theme, providing a sophisticated and muted feel. It is best suited for non-interactive elements where readability is not paramount. For example, a footer or a decorative sidebar might benefit from this color as a backdrop. However, it is essential to pair it with contrasting text colors to ensure accessibility. Avoid using it for crucial information or calls-to-action.
Interior Design - Accent Color
In interior design, this color can serve as an accent wall in a room with ample natural light, adding depth and sophistication without overwhelming the space. It can be paired with lighter, warmer tones for furniture and accessories to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. It can also be used for painting furniture. The color should be used sparingly to avoid making the space feel too dark or gloomy. Ensure that the lighting in the room is adequate to showcase the color's nuances and prevent it from appearing simply black.
Fashion Design - Accent Color
This color can be used in fashion design as an accent color on clothing or accessories. The low-key color can pair nicely with brighter colors such as a bright cyan or pink. The Aztec color can be used in formal settings, such as suits, blazers and dresses. The color is best suited for individuals who want to represent authority and elegance in their wardrobe.