Vulcan
General Information About #171420
The hexadecimal color code #171420 represents a very dark, almost black shade of purple in the RGB color model. It is composed of 9.02% red, 7.84% green, and 12.55% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 28.12% cyan, 37.5% magenta, 0% yellow, and 87.45% black. This color is often referred to as "Vulcan," suggesting a sense of depth, mystery, and sophistication. Due to its low luminance, #171420 is typically used as a background or accent color. In terms of color perception, it falls within the cool end of the spectrum, evoking feelings of calmness, elegance, or even somberness. Its primary applications include graphic design, web design, and fashion, where it can contribute to creating a refined and understated aesthetic.
The hex color #171420, also known as Vulcan, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very dark nature results in low contrast against lighter backgrounds, which can make text and other elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for ensuring content is perceivable. For standard text (size 14 regular or 12 bold), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while large text should have a ratio of at least 3:1. Vulcan is unlikely to meet these ratios with most standard foreground colors, necessitating careful selection of very light foreground colors like white or very pale yellows to achieve acceptable contrast. When using #171420 for interactive elements like buttons or links, it's especially important to ensure that the contrast is sufficient not only for the normal state but also for hover, focus, and active states. Providing clear visual cues, such as underlines or changes in background color, can further improve the accessibility of these elements. Additionally, consider providing alternative styling options or high-contrast themes to accommodate users with diverse visual needs. Thoroughly testing your designs with accessibility tools and real users with visual impairments is essential to ensure that your content is truly accessible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #222222
#222222 offers a slightly lighter alternative while maintaining a dark aesthetic, potentially improving contrast in some applications.
- #111111
#111111 is an even darker shade, useful when a near-black color is desired, but requires extremely light foreground colors for legibility.
- #1e1e1e
#1e1e1e Provides a touch more brightness than #171420 which can be helpful when needing a bit more distinction from true black.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #171420 can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites aiming for a dark or mysterious aesthetic. It works particularly well for portfolios, gaming sites, or tech-focused blogs where a sleek, modern feel is desired. To ensure readability, pair it with light text colors such as #FFFFFF or #EEEEEE. Also, it is very important to keep contrast accessible. The color can also be used effectively in UI elements like navigation bars or footers, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design. Careful consideration of typography and spacing is necessary to maintain a clean and user-friendly interface.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #171420 can be employed as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a space. Consider using it on walls in a home theater or study to create a cozy and immersive atmosphere. When combined with metallic accents like gold or silver, #171420 can evoke a sense of luxury and elegance. It also pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a balanced and harmonious environment. Be mindful of the overall lighting in the room to ensure that the dark color does not make the space feel too small or claustrophobic. Using it as wall color for all walls in a small room is not recommended.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #171420 is a versatile color choice for creating elegant and timeless looks. It can be used for formal wear such as evening gowns or suits, providing a sophisticated and understated base for accessories and embellishments. The color also works well for casual wear such as sweaters, jackets, or trousers, adding a touch of refinement to everyday outfits. It can be combined with other dark colors for a monochrome look or with brighter colors for a striking contrast. When styling with #171420, consider the texture of the fabric to enhance the overall visual appeal and create depth.