Ebony
General Information about Ebony
The hex color #120C28, also known as Ebony, is a very dark shade of purple. It is composed of 7.1% red, 4.7% green, and 15.7% blue. In the RGB color model, it has the values 18, 12, and 40. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 55% cyan, 70% magenta, 0% yellow, and 84% black. This color evokes feelings of mystery, sophistication, and elegance. It is often associated with high-end brands and nighttime settings. The color is not very common in nature, but it can be seen in certain minerals and dark, shaded areas. Because of its dark nature, it can make areas seem smaller and more intimate.
The hex color #120C28, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. When used as a background color, it necessitates extremely light text 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. This color may struggle to meet these ratios with many common text colors. Therefore, designers must carefully select text colors with high luminance values to ensure that users with visual impairments can easily read the content. Tools for checking contrast ratios are essential when using this color. Also, it is advisable to avoid using this color for essential graphical elements or interactive components, unless accompanied by clear and contrasting indicators.
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Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ebony (#120C28) can be used to create a sophisticated and mysterious aesthetic, particularly suitable for websites related to luxury brands, technology, or entertainment. It works well as a background color for sections featuring high-quality imagery or as a header background when paired with light, contrasting text. Its deep hue evokes a sense of elegance and exclusivity. Because of its darkness, consider it for elements where subtlety is key, avoiding large areas of solid color to prevent the site from feeling too heavy or overwhelming.
Fashion
In fashion, Ebony can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire to create a sleek and elegant look. It can also be used as a base color for accessories such as handbags or shoes. The color exudes sophistication and can be combined with metallic accents or brighter colors for contrast. Because of its dark nature, it's often used in materials like velvet or silk to enhance its richness and depth. Combining it with textured fabrics can also add dimension to an outfit.
Interior Design
Ebony is an excellent choice for creating a luxurious and intimate atmosphere in interior design. Use it sparingly as an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, or as the color of furniture pieces like sofas or cabinets. Pair it with lighter colors such as ivory or gold to create a balanced and sophisticated space. The darkness of Ebony makes it ideal for creating a cozy feel. In well-lit spaces, it can add a touch of drama, while in dimly lit areas, it creates a sense of mystery and comfort.