Nero
General Information about #160404
The hex color #160404, also known as Nero, is a very dark shade of gray-black. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 1.57% green, and 1.57% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 81.82% magenta, 81.82% yellow, and 91.37% black. This combination results in a color that is almost entirely devoid of vibrancy, making it appear very muted and subdued. Nero is often associated with feelings of sophistication, elegance, and mystery due to its deep and understated nature. It is frequently employed to create a sense of formality or to add depth to designs. Its name, evocative of darkness and shadow, further reinforces its character.
The hex color #160404, also known as Nero, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely dark nature. Its low luminance results in very poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and graphical elements difficult to perceive for users with visual impairments. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Nero typically fails to meet these standards with most common background colors. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair Nero with very light colors, ensuring sufficient contrast. Tools for checking color contrast ratios should be employed during design to validate compliance with accessibility standards and ensure readability for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Consider using a lighter shade or tint as an alternative.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #262626
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #36454F
A dark charcoal gray provides a bit more visibility without straying too far from the original color's intent.
- #332200
A muted brown color can be a good alternative that provides slightly better visibility and a warmer tone.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #160404 can serve as a sophisticated background for sections intended to evoke a sense of mystery or exclusivity. Its deep shade is appropriate for luxury brand websites or dark mode interfaces seeking an elegant touch. When used for text, pair it meticulously with high-contrast fonts and backgrounds to preserve readability. It can be incorporated into design elements like buttons or decorative accents, but its limited visibility means it should be applied sparingly. If the goal is to create a background, you should provide a contrasting foreground.
Interior Design
In interior design, #160404 can be used as an accent color in minimalist or modern spaces. It is also suitable for furniture upholstery or decorative items like vases or picture frames. This color provides a luxurious and intimate feel to the room, especially when paired with soft lighting and contrasting textures. Consider its use in home theaters or studies where a dark and cozy atmosphere is desired. However, overusing this color can make a room feel smaller and more enclosed, so moderation is key.
Fashion
In fashion, #160404 can be used for clothing items or accessories to convey sophistication and elegance. Its depth makes it suitable for formal wear, such as evening gowns or suits. Accessories like belts or shoes in this color can add a touch of refinement to an outfit. Pairing it with lighter or brighter colors can create a striking contrast, preventing the overall look from appearing too somber. This color is also versatile enough to be used in casual wear, such as sweaters or jackets.