Ebony
General Information about #140B24 (Ebony)
The hex color code #140B24 represents a very dark shade of violet or purple, often described as Ebony in color palettes. It belongs to the family of dark, muted colors, possessing a low saturation and luminance. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it is composed of 8% red, 4.3% green, and 14.1% blue. The color is perceived as deep, somber, and mysterious, often associated with elegance, sophistication, and a sense of understated luxury. Due to its darkness, it is frequently used as a background color or an accent color in design, where it can provide a strong contrast against lighter elements. In color psychology, dark purples can symbolize creativity, wisdom, and ambition. Ebony is a versatile color that can be incorporated into a variety of design contexts to evoke a specific mood or feeling.
The color #140B24, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low luminance (darkness) means it offers poor contrast against typical light backgrounds. Text rendered in #140B24 on a white or light-colored background would likely fail WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. This is crucial because users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, would struggle to read such text. To improve accessibility, consider pairing Ebony with much lighter colors that provide a strong contrast ratio (at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Alternatives include using Ebony sparingly for decorative elements or as a dark accent color rather than for primary text or interactive elements. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance with WCAG standards and to provide a more inclusive user experience. Providing sufficient contrast ensures readability and usability for all users, regardless of their visual abilities. Another option is to use a lighter shade of gray as background color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #282333
A slightly lighter shade of gray provides better contrast while maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #221935
A dark purple that offers a similar mood but potentially better contrast depending on the background.
- #1f1a21
A desaturated, almost black color that provides a similar level of darkness with the potential for improved readability when paired with lighter colors.
Applications
Website Footer/Header Background
Ebony (#140B24) can be effectively utilized in website footers or headers to create a sophisticated and understated visual impact. Its dark nature makes it ideal for sections where less visual prominence is desired, allowing other elements to stand out. Furthermore, it can serve as a background for showcasing minimalist icons or textual content. When employed in this manner, ensure adequate contrast with the foreground elements by using lighter text colors like off-white or light gray. In user interface (UI) design, Ebony can be strategically incorporated as a secondary color to accentuate specific interactive elements, such as buttons or toggles, thereby contributing to a polished and refined user experience. This color also works great on portfolio websites where photos and text are displayed.
Interior Design Accent
In the realm of interior design, Ebony (#140B24) lends itself to creating a sense of depth and luxury. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a dramatic focal point. Additionally, it pairs well with metallic accents, such as gold or copper, to evoke a sense of opulence. The color can also be used for furniture upholstery, particularly in modern or minimalist settings, to introduce a touch of elegance and sophistication. When using Ebony in interior spaces, it's crucial to balance it with lighter colors and ample lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or enclosed.
Fashion and Graphic Design
In fashion, Ebony (#140B24) represents sophistication and elegance. It can be used in evening wear, such as dresses or suits, to create a sleek and timeless look. It serves as an excellent backdrop to showcase jewelry or accessories. This color can also be used in outerwear, such as coats or jackets, providing a versatile and classic option. In graphic design, this color can be used in logos, icons, or branding materials to convey a sense of sophistication, luxury, or exclusivity.