Ebony
General Information about Ebony (#0C0F21)
The hex color #0C0F21, often referred to as Ebony, is a very dark shade of gray-black. It belongs to the black color family and is characterized by its extremely low lightness value. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 4.71% red, 5.88% green, and 12.94% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 64% cyan, 55% magenta, 0% yellow, and 87% black. This color is frequently employed to convey feelings of sophistication, mystery, and depth. Due to its darkness, it's essential to use it carefully in design to ensure readability and accessibility. It's commonly used as a background color or accent to provide contrast with lighter elements.
The hex color #0C0F21, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its contrast ratio against a standard white background is critically low, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to discern text or important UI elements. Therefore, it's crucial to avoid using this color for text, icons, or interactive elements without a carefully chosen, very light foreground color to ensure sufficient contrast. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend 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. Using color contrast analyzers is crucial to validate any color combinations with this dark hue. Consider offering alternative high-contrast themes for your website or application to accommodate users with varying visual needs. For instance, a user-switchable 'high contrast' mode can significantly improve usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Ebony (#0C0F21) can be used sparingly for background elements or accents where high contrast is not critical. For example, it could serve as a dark overlay on images or as a subtle background for decorative elements. However, it should never be used for text or interactive elements without a very light foreground color to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it in conjunction with brighter colors to create a visually striking contrast and avoid a monotonous dark theme. It can provide a sophisticated and modern feel when used judiciously.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Ebony can be incorporated to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It works well as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items. When paired with lighter colors like cream or beige, it can add a touch of drama and elegance to a room. It's particularly effective in creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere in spaces like home theaters or bedrooms. Consider using textured materials to enhance the visual interest of this dark color.
Fashion Design Base
In fashion, Ebony can be used as a base color for clothing or accessories. It provides a versatile backdrop for showcasing brighter colors and can create a sleek and modern look. It's commonly used in evening wear, outerwear, and accessories like bags and shoes. When paired with metallic accents or bold prints, it can elevate an outfit and make a statement. It's also a popular choice for creating a minimalist and sophisticated wardrobe.