Ebony

General Information about Ebony (#0A0B21)

The hex color #0A0B21, often referred to as Ebony, is a very dark shade of blue-gray. It resides in the lower end of the color spectrum, possessing minimal brightness and saturation. Its RGB values are R:10, G:11, and B:33, indicating a significantly higher blue component compared to red and green, contributing to its subtle bluish undertone. In the context of color theory, Ebony is considered a neutral color, suitable for creating backgrounds or providing a base for more vibrant colors. However, its darkness makes it challenging to use directly for text or interface elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios. Ebony, due to its association with the dark hardwood of the same name, evokes feelings of sophistication, luxury, and mystery. It can add a touch of elegance and drama to designs when implemented thoughtfully.

The hex color #0A0B21, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its extremely low luminance value results in very poor contrast against almost any background color, including white. This lack of contrast makes it difficult for users, particularly those with visual impairments, to read text or distinguish interface elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Ebony falls far short of these recommendations, necessitating careful consideration of its use. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair Ebony with very light colors or avoid using it for text altogether. For decorative purposes where legibility is not paramount, it can be employed more freely, but always with an awareness of its limitations regarding visual accessibility. Providing alternative high-contrast themes is also beneficial.

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Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web development, Ebony can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers, particularly for brands aiming for a luxurious or high-end feel. It can be effectively combined with gold or silver accents to create a premium aesthetic. However, it should be used sparingly for text due to accessibility concerns, opting instead for lighter shades of gray or off-white to ensure readability. For interactive elements like buttons, consider using a brighter hover state to provide clear visual feedback. Careful implementation is crucial to achieve the desired effect without compromising user experience. Ebony is a great color in combination with a bright accent color.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ebony can be utilized to create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere. It works well in spaces like home theaters, studies, or bedrooms where a sense of enclosure is desired. Pair it with warmer textures like velvet or natural wood to prevent the space from feeling cold or sterile. Accents of metallics like copper or brass can add a touch of luxury and sophistication. When using Ebony on walls, ensure adequate lighting is incorporated to prevent the room from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. Consider using it as an accent wall color rather than painting an entire room in this dark shade.

• Fashion Design

  In the realm of fashion, Ebony can be employed to design sleek and elegant garments, particularly for evening wear or formal attire. This dark hue exudes sophistication and refinement, making it suitable for creating timeless and classic silhouettes. When designing with Ebony, consider incorporating contrasting textures and materials, such as silk or velvet, to add depth and visual interest. Accessorize with metallic accents like silver or gold jewelry to elevate the overall look. Ebony can also be used as a neutral base for layering, allowing brighter colors or statement pieces to take center stage.

Complementary color

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