Ebony
General Information about #120A28
The hexadecimal color code #120A28 represents a very dark shade of blue, often described as ebony. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it is composed of 7.06% red, 3.92% green, and 15.69% blue. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, commonly used in printing, its composition is 55% cyan, 75% magenta, 0% yellow, and 84% black. This color resides within the blue-violet hue range and is characterized by its low saturation and very low brightness. Due to the darkness of this color, it is generally used sparingly and effectively as an accent or background to highlight lighter elements.
The hex color #120a28, a deep, dark shade of ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background would require extremely light text (ideally white or near-white) to achieve sufficient contrast. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given the darkness of #120a28, careful consideration must be given to foreground text colors to meet these guidelines. Failure to meet these contrast ratios can result in content that is difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to read, including those with low vision or color blindness. Using contrast checking tools is crucial when implementing this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e1a33
A slightly lighter shade of dark blue which provides better contrast for text.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray that offers a more versatile background for various text colors.
- #202a30
A very dark desaturated blue which can create a similar sophisticated feel while offering better readability when combined with white text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #120a28 can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or footers, especially for websites aiming for a luxurious or mysterious aesthetic. However, due to its dark nature, it's crucial to pair it with contrasting light text to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be employed sparingly for graphical elements or subtle accents to add depth without overwhelming the user interface. For example, it could be used on a website promoting high-end watches, where the dark background emphasizes the sheen of metal.
Fashion
In fashion, this deep ebony hue evokes feelings of sophistication and luxury. It can be used in evening wear designs, particularly for dresses or suits. The color exudes a sense of mystery and elegance. A designer might incorporate #120a28 into a velvet gown with subtle embellishments for a formal event, or it could be used as the base color for a structured blazer, paired with lighter colors to create a striking contrast.
Interior Design
For interior design, #120a28 can be used as an accent wall color in a modern living room or bedroom to add depth and drama. It can be paired with lighter, contrasting colors like off-white or cream to prevent the space from feeling too dark or oppressive. It could also be used for furniture upholstery, such as a luxurious velvet sofa, creating a focal point in the room. In either case, ample lighting is crucial to balance the darkness and enhance the overall ambiance.