Elephant
General Information about #163A42
#163A42, also known as 'Elephant' in some contexts, is a dark, desaturated blue-gray color. It belongs to the family of cool colors and evokes a sense of tranquility and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 22.75% green, and 25.88% blue. Its hexadecimal representation makes it easy to use in digital design and web development. Colors similar to #163A42 are often associated with professionalism, stability, and trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aimed at conveying reliability. Its relatively low lightness value means it should be used with careful consideration of contrast in user interfaces, particularly when used for text or important visual elements. It can be found in nature as the color of certain types of rocks and dark bodies of water.
The hex color #163A42, often referred to as 'Elephant,' presents unique accessibility considerations. Its relatively low lightness value means it has limited contrast when paired with many lighter background colors. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. To ensure accessibility, this color should primarily be used with very light shades to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in verifying compliance. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey critical information; supplement with text labels or other visual cues. Using #163A42 for decorative elements or larger graphical components poses less of an accessibility concern, but careful consideration should still be given to the overall visual harmony and user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #264a52
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast against white backgrounds.
- #333333
A more neutral gray that can be used as a safer alternative for text to ensure better readability.
- #0a1418
If the intent is to provide a darker background, a very dark gray provides a more accessible contrast point against white text or lighter interactive elements
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #163A42 can be used for header backgrounds or side navigation bars to create a sophisticated and professional look. Due to its dark nature, it pairs well with lighter text and accent colors to provide visual interest. When used sparingly, it adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming the overall design. Employing it as the primary background for an entire webpage may lead to visual fatigue, so its use should be carefully considered.
Interior Design
In interior design, #163A42 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. It complements natural wood tones and metallic accents beautifully. This color can also be incorporated through furniture upholstery or decorative accessories to add depth and richness to the overall design. To avoid making a room feel too dark, balance it with lighter wall colors, such as off-white or light gray, and plenty of natural light.
Fashion
In fashion, #163A42 works well for creating elegant and understated looks. It can be used for dresses, suits, or outerwear, and pairs well with both neutral and vibrant colors. Consider using it for accessories like handbags or shoes to add a touch of sophistication to an outfit. Its versatility makes it a great option for both casual and formal wear. It works great with earth tones for outdoors clothing.