Aztec
General Information about #161E1D
The color #161E1D, also known as Aztec, is a very dark shade of green, almost appearing black to the naked eye. It belongs to the family of desaturated colors, meaning it has a low intensity of color. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 11.76% green, and 11.37% blue. Its hexadecimal representation, #161E1D, is commonly used in web design and digital applications. The color's muted nature lends itself to creating a sense of sophistication and subtlety. Due to its darkness, it is often used as a background color or as an accent to highlight brighter colors. It is important to use this color carefully in applications where accessibility is important because of the very dark tint.
The hex color #161E1D, a very dark desaturated green, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means that it offers very little contrast against other dark colors, potentially rendering text unreadable for users with low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with very light hues for text or interactive elements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to comply with WCAG guidelines. Using color contrast checkers is essential to validate sufficient contrast. Avoid using this color for crucial visual information without redundant cues, like text labels or icons. Considering alternative, lighter shades or using a color with higher saturation would drastically improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #28302f
A slightly lighter shade of gray-green, #28302F offers a similar aesthetic while providing marginally better contrast and readability, making it a more accessible option for text and UI elements.
- #333333
A desaturated gray, #333333, is a neutral alternative that offers better contrast when paired with lighter elements, making it a safer choice for ensuring readability and accessibility in various applications.
- #1c2827
The color #1C2827 is another alternative. It is a bit brighter and could provide better contrast.
Applications
Web Design: Dark Mode Accents
In web design, #161E1D can be used sparingly for subtle background accents or dividers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, it's crucial to avoid using it for text or interactive elements without ensuring sufficient contrast. The color can also be effective in creating a dark mode aesthetic, providing a low-key and visually comfortable experience for users browsing in low-light environments. Be careful about the accessibility though!
Interior Design: Grounding Color
In interior design, #161E1D can be used as a grounding color for walls or furniture, creating a sense of calm and tranquility. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like brass or copper. The color can also be used to create a sophisticated and understated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. When combining it with lighter colors you will create some contrast.
Fashion: Understated Elegance
In fashion, #161E1D can be used as a versatile neutral for creating understated and elegant outfits. It pairs well with a variety of colors, from earthy tones to jewel tones. The color can be used for creating minimalist looks or as a backdrop for bolder accessories. It is best used for creating a sophisticated and timeless appeal.