Elephant
General Information about #11384C
The hexadecimal color #11384C, often referred to as 'Elephant' due to its resemblance to the color of an elephant's skin, is a dark, muted shade of blue-gray. It belongs to the broader family of cool colors and exhibits characteristics of both blue and gray hues. In the RGB color model, #11384C is composed of 6.67% red, 21.96% green, and 29.8% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.77, 0.27, 0, 0.7, indicating that it requires a significant amount of cyan to achieve its distinctive shade. This color conveys a sense of calmness, stability, and sophistication, making it a versatile choice for various design applications.
The color #11384C presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text or interactive elements, it requires careful consideration of the background color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text against its background to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Given its dark hue, #11384C necessitates a very light background to meet these standards. Insufficient contrast can render content unreadable for a significant portion of users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Developers should use contrast checking tools during design and development to validate the accessibility of color combinations. Furthermore, providing alternative styling options, such as allowing users to customize color schemes, can greatly enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #224455
A slightly lighter shade, #224455, provides a bit more visibility while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #18303f
A desaturated version, #18303F, offers a more muted and subtle appearance, which can be useful in situations where a less intense color is desired.
- #152830
Using #152830, which is darker, to highlight contrast between elements when #11384C is used as the background.
Applications
Corporate Web Design
In web design, #11384C can be employed to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It's particularly well-suited for backgrounds in websites related to technology, finance, or consulting, where a sense of professionalism and stability is desired. When paired with lighter accent colors, such as creams or light blues, it can create an appealing visual hierarchy that guides the user's eye through the content. However, careful consideration must be given to contrast ratios to ensure readability and accessibility, especially when used for text elements.
Interior Design
In interior design, #11384C can be used to evoke a sense of tranquility and depth. It works well in bedrooms or studies, where a calming and focused environment is desired. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces, and is often paired with warm neutrals like beige or cream to create a balanced and inviting space. The color also complements natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the organic feel of the room. Lighting plays a crucial role when using such a dark color; ample natural or artificial light is needed to prevent the space from feeling too somber.
Fashion Industry
In the fashion industry, #11384C is often used to create elegant and timeless pieces. It's a popular choice for evening wear, business attire, and accessories like handbags and scarves. Its ability to pair well with both warm and cool tones makes it versatile, allowing designers to create a wide range of looks. When combined with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, it adds a touch of luxury and sophistication. The color is also commonly used in menswear, particularly for suits and overcoats, to project an image of confidence and refinement.