Ebony
General Information about #120C20
The hex color #120c20, often referred to as ebony, is a very dark shade of blue-purple, residing near black on the color spectrum. It is composed of 7.1% red, 4.7% green, and 12.5% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as rgb(18, 12, 32). This color evokes feelings of mystery, sophistication, and depth. It is commonly associated with luxury, elegance, and the night sky. In design, #120c20 can be used to create a sense of drama, formality, or exclusivity. Its muted nature makes it a versatile backdrop for brighter, more vibrant colors, allowing them to stand out. However, due to its darkness, it's important to consider accessibility when using this color, ensuring adequate contrast with text and other elements.
The hex color #120c20, a dark ebony shade, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast against light backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to discern text or interface elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for readability and usability. To ensure accessibility, it's imperative to pair this dark color with a very light color for text or interactive elements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Furthermore, providing alternative text descriptions for images and ensuring that interactive elements have clear focus indicators are essential for inclusivity. Avoid using this color for critical information or actions without careful consideration of its impact on users with disabilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #222222
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides a similar dark aesthetic but with marginally improved visibility.
- #343a40
A deep blue-gray which can offer a sophisticated look while potentially providing better contrast depending on the background.
- #281e36
A very dark purple that could be used if some of the purple undertones of the original color need to be emphasized.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #120c20 can be used for website backgrounds or header sections to create a sophisticated, dark-themed aesthetic. It pairs well with lighter text colors like #f8f9fa or #e9ecef for readability. However, it should be used sparingly for interactive elements or crucial information due to potential accessibility concerns. For instance, using it as a background for a portfolio site can draw focus to the showcased work.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, #120c20 evokes a sense of mystery and sophistication. It can be applied in garments such as formal dresses, suits, or outerwear. To create visually appealing outfits, #120c20 can be combined with brighter colors like gold, silver, or even a vivid red for contrast. It's often utilized in gothic or avant-garde fashion styles. The deep, dark hue provides a grounding element, allowing other colors to pop.
Interior Design
In interior design, #120c20 serves as an excellent accent color for creating a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere. It can be used for walls in a home theater or study. When designing a room using this color, it's crucial to balance the darkness with lighter elements, such as bright lighting, lighter flooring, or colorful artwork. This prevents the room from feeling too small or oppressive, while still creating a sense of enclosure and sophistication.