Nero
General Information about #170406 (Nero)
The hexadecimal color code #170406 represents a very dark shade of red. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 1.57% green, and 2.35% blue. When represented in the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 82.35% magenta, 34.62% yellow, and 90.98% black. This color is often referred to as "Nero," which means "black" in Italian, although it is not a true black. It leans towards a dark, muted red-brown hue. Colors similar to #170406 are often associated with sophistication, mystery, and elegance. Due to its darkness, it's often used as a background color or paired with lighter, contrasting colors to create visually appealing designs. It has a very low lightness value, making it absorb most of the light that hits it.
The color #170406, also known as Nero, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low lightness value results in very poor contrast against typical light-colored backgrounds like white or light gray. This poor contrast makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to distinguish text or other elements rendered in this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. Nero falls far short of these recommendations. To improve accessibility, consider using Nero sparingly, if at all, especially for text. When Nero is necessary, pair it with a very light color to maximize contrast, and always test the contrast ratio using an online tool to ensure it meets WCAG standards. Additionally, providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or borders, can help users perceive information when color contrast is insufficient.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #210e11
A slightly lighter shade of black that offers improved contrast against light backgrounds while still maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides better readability compared to pure black, especially for extended text passages.
- #2b1900
A deep brown color that retains a sense of darkness while providing a touch of warmth and visual interest, making it a more inviting alternative to pure black.
Applications
Website Hero Section Background
In web design, Nero (#170406) can be effectively used as a background color for hero sections to create a dramatic and impactful introduction. When combined with contrasting bright text and interactive elements, it draws the user's eye and establishes a sense of sophistication. Nero can be used for navigation bars or footers to add a touch of elegance and clearly define the boundaries of a webpage. The dark background helps make the content in the central area stand out.
Minimalist Poster Design
Nero (#170406) can be a stylish choice for designing minimalist posters or flyers. Its deep, dark hue provides a solid backdrop for showcasing bold, contrasting typography or graphics. For fashion, Nero can create a slimming and sophisticated effect for clothing. A black dress or suit can be a timeless classic, suitable for various occasions.
Luxurious product packaging
Nero, with its deep and mysterious hue, is an excellent color choice for creating packaging designs that exude luxury and exclusivity. Consider using this color for high-end products such as premium chocolates, spirits, or cosmetics. The use of Nero can evoke a sense of sophistication and quality, enticing customers to choose the product. It's a powerful tool for brand messaging.