Mirage
General Information about #161525
The hex color code #161525 represents a dark, desaturated shade of blue-purple, often described as "Mirage." It belongs to the family of neutral dark tones and is commonly used in design to evoke feelings of sophistication, mystery, and depth. Its low brightness makes it a subtle yet powerful choice for backgrounds, text, and other design elements, especially when paired with contrasting colors. The color is not part of the web safe colors. From a technical perspective, #161525 is composed of 8.63% red, 8.24% green, and 14.51% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:22, G:21, and B:37. In the CMYK color space, its approximate composition is C:0.41, M:0.43, Y:0.00, K:0.85. This dark tone is best used when a subtle and elegant backdrop is desired.
The color #161525, also known as Mirage, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in very poor contrast against typical light backgrounds, such as white or light gray. This can make text and other interface elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Web developers should avoid using this color for primary text or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios. The WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) recommends a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #161525 requires very light foreground colors to meet these standards. Consider using color contrast tools to verify compliance and providing alternative color schemes for users who need them. Furthermore, avoid using it for conveying important information through color alone, as users with color blindness may not be able to distinguish it effectively. Providing redundant cues, such as text labels or icons, can improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #28273d
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a dark aesthetic but improves readability against light backgrounds.
- #333333
A dark gray that offers better contrast compared to Mirage, making it a safer choice for text and UI elements.
- #201e20
Provides a warmer tone while still remaining dark, offering a more inviting feel compared to the coolness of Mirage.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Mirage (#161525) can be effectively used as a background color for website sections intended to have a strong visual impact. For instance, it can serve as the backdrop for a hero section or a call-to-action banner. To ensure readability, bright, contrasting text and elements, such as white or vibrant accent colors, should be used. This approach is suitable for websites with a modern or futuristic design aesthetic. Remember to always check contrast ratios to maintain accessibility standards. This color evokes a sense of mystery and sophistication, which aligns well with themes like technology, space exploration, or high-end products.
Interior Design
In interior design, Mirage can be used to create a dramatic and moody atmosphere in spaces like home theaters, bedrooms, or accent walls. It works exceptionally well when paired with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, and soft lighting. This color can also be incorporated into furniture pieces, such as sofas or cabinets, to add a touch of elegance and depth. It's crucial to balance the darkness of the color with lighter elements to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed or gloomy. Consider incorporating plants and natural textures to add warmth and visual interest.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #161525 can be used in the design of elegant evening wear or sophisticated casual attire. It works well as the primary color for dresses, suits, or outerwear, offering a sleek and modern look. It can be paired with metallic accessories or vibrant accent colors to create eye-catching contrasts. The color is very versatile and it suits to design clothes for all seasons.