Vulcan
General Information about #151620
The hexadecimal color code #151620 represents a very dark shade of grayish-blue in the RGB color model. It is composed of 8.24% red, 8.63% green, and 12.55% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 34.34% cyan, 31.18% magenta, 0% yellow, and 87.45% black. This color is often described as 'Vulcan' due to its dark, somber, and somewhat mysterious quality, reminiscent of volcanic rock or deep space. Colors like #151620 are commonly used in designs where a sense of sophistication, depth, or understated elegance is desired. They work well as background colors, accents, or to create a visual hierarchy that draws attention to brighter or more colorful elements. The hex code #151620 is a very neutral color, and as such works in many design contexts.
The color #151620, also known as Vulcan, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Due to its very dark nature and low luminance, it offers extremely poor contrast against standard light backgrounds, such as white or pale yellow. This lack of contrast makes text rendered in this color exceedingly difficult to read for individuals with low vision or color vision deficiencies. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair #151620 with significantly lighter colors that meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text. Using tools to check color contrast is highly advisable to ensure compliance and enhance usability for all users. Furthermore, avoid using #151620 for essential visual elements or interactive components without proper contrast, as it can lead to a frustrating user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #292a34
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark, sophisticated feel.
- #343642
A dark gray with subtle blue undertones, offering a softer appearance and improved readability.
- #1e212b
A very dark blue to add just a hint of color while preserving the desired darkness.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #151620 can be used for website footers, navigation bars, or as a background color for sections where a dark, subdued aesthetic is desired. However, careful consideration must be given to the color of the text and other elements placed on top of it to ensure sufficient contrast and readability. It pairs well with lighter shades of gray, off-white, or accent colors like teal or gold to create a sophisticated and modern look. It is recommended to avoid using #151620 as the primary background color for websites with extensive text content, as it can cause eye strain.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #151620 can be used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or as a base color for a room with a modern or industrial style. It provides a grounding effect and works well with metallic accents like silver or copper. When using this color in interior design, it is important to balance it with lighter colors and ample lighting to avoid creating a space that feels too dark or oppressive. Natural wood tones, lighter fabrics, and reflective surfaces can help to brighten the room and create a more inviting atmosphere. Consider pairing with complementary colors such as gold or warm greys.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #151620 can be used for creating sophisticated and understated garments. It serves as a versatile base color that can be paired with a variety of other colors and textures. It is well-suited for creating minimalist outfits or for adding a touch of elegance to more elaborate designs. For example, #151620 can be used for dresses, suits, or outerwear, and can be accessorized with jewelry, scarves, or shoes in complementary colors. Consider the fabric and texture, like a leather jacket.