Elephant
General Information about #0E3A42
The hexadecimal color #0e3a42, often referred to as 'Elephant' or similar names evoking a sense of depth and coolness, is a dark, desaturated cyan. It resides in the dark teal color family, bringing to mind the ocean depths or a twilight forest. This color is composed of 5.5% red, 22.7% green, and 25.9% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a subtle balance, leaning towards the cooler end of the spectrum. Its hex code, #0e3a42, is a shorthand representation of these color values, allowing designers and developers to consistently reproduce this specific shade across various media.
The hex color #0e3a42 presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low lightness value. When used as a foreground color, it requires careful consideration of the background color to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using #0e3a42 on a light background can easily fail these contrast tests, making text difficult to read for users, especially those with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #0e3a42 with much lighter shades, or using it for decorative elements where legibility is not crucial. Careful testing with accessibility tools is essential to ensure compliance and a positive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #346873
A lighter shade that maintains the cool, muted tone while providing better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #1f4a52
A slightly desaturated version that offers a softer visual impact and can be more versatile in various design contexts.
- #2f4f4f
A dark grayish cyan that provides a better readability than the original one.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0e3a42 can be used for website headers or footers to create a sense of sophistication and depth. Its dark hue works well for navigation bars or sidebars, especially when paired with lighter text for contrast. It's also suitable for subtle background accents or as a secondary color in a muted color palette. However, it should be used sparingly for text to avoid readability issues. When used thoughtfully, it can give a professional and understated feel to the overall design.
Interior Design
In interior design, #0e3a42 can be employed to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in studies, bedrooms, or living rooms, particularly when combined with natural materials like wood or stone. It can be used as a wall color, but is better suited for accent walls or architectural details. Furniture upholstery in this color can add a touch of elegance, while decorative accessories like cushions or throws can introduce subtle hints of color without overwhelming the space.
Fashion
In fashion, #0e3a42 can serve as a versatile neutral, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional black or navy. It's well-suited for outerwear, such as coats or jackets, and can be easily paired with a variety of colors and styles. The color can also be used to create a refined and understated look, exuding confidence and professionalism. Accessorizing with complementary colors like mustard yellow or burnt orange can add a touch of warmth and visual interest to an outfit.