Elephant
General Information
#173146, also known as Elephant, is a deep, muted shade of blue-gray. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.02% red, 19.22% green, and 27.45% blue. Its CMYK values are 67.16% cyan, 29.96% magenta, 0% yellow, and 72.55% black. This color evokes feelings of sophistication, stability, and calmness. It is often associated with professionalism and trust, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and formal settings. The hex code #173146 is commonly used in web design and graphic design to specify this particular shade. Understanding the color composition and its psychological associations can help designers effectively utilize #173146 in their projects.
The color #173146, also known as Elephant, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its low luminance value of 0.03 makes it difficult to provide sufficient contrast against a white background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using #173146 on a white background yields a contrast ratio that falls significantly short of these recommendations. Therefore, when using #173146 for text or important UI elements, it's crucial to pair it with a very light color or even white for the background to ensure readability for users, including those with visual impairments. Furthermore, consider providing alternative color schemes to allow users to customize the interface to meet their individual needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #284b63
A slightly lighter shade of blue can offer improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
Using a desaturated gray can provide a more neutral and accessible option.
- #292929
This dark shade of gray is still closely related to the original color, while being lighter in tonality, thus a more accessible option.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #173146 can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers, especially for companies aiming to convey a sense of professionalism and stability. When using it for interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain usability. Complementary colors like a light yellow or beige can be used for accents to create a balanced visual experience. Avoid using it as a primary text color unless paired with a very light background. Remember to use color blindness tools to check the contrast
Interior Design
In interior design, #173146 can be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere, particularly in bedrooms or studies. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or copper. As a deep, grounding hue, consider using it as an accent wall or for furniture upholstery. Balance the depth of the color with lighter elements, such as white or cream-colored walls, to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. Adding indoor plants can further enhance the sense of tranquility.
Fashion
In fashion, #173146 can be used to create elegant and understated outfits, especially for evening wear or formal occasions. It pairs well with other dark colors like black or navy, as well as contrasting colors like burgundy or mustard yellow. Consider using it for accessories such as handbags or scarves to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. In cosmetic applications, it can be used to create a bold and dramatic look. Combining the Elephant tone with gold accessories could create a great contrast.