Elephant
General Information
The hexadecimal color #173C47, often referred to as 'Elephant', is a dark, desaturated shade of cyan-blue. It belongs to the teal color family and exhibits a subtle blend of green and blue hues, creating a sophisticated and muted aesthetic. The color is characterized by its low saturation, which contributes to its calm and understated nature. Its hexadecimal value translates to 9.02% red, 23.53% green, and 27.84% blue. In the RGB color space, these values contribute to its deep, slightly cool undertone. It's often associated with feelings of stability, peace, and sophistication. The color is a good choice for designs where elegance and subtlety are desired, but needs careful consideration with contrast.
The color #173C47, a deep, muted teal, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its low luminance (brightness) means it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for users with visual impairments. For normal-sized text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), a ratio of 3:1 is acceptable. When using #173C47 for text, consider pairing it with light colors like whites (#FFFFFF) or very light grays to meet these contrast requirements. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can help you determine if the combination you've chosen meets accessibility standards. If sufficient contrast cannot be achieved, consider using #173C47 for larger graphical elements where readability is less critical, or adjust color for better contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #173C47 can be effectively used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and calming visual experience. It pairs well with minimalist designs and can evoke feelings of trust and reliability. The color also serves as an excellent choice for graphical elements such as icons or buttons. When using as a background, you can incorporate a lighter complementary accent color to ensure readability and create visual interest. However, remember to carefully check the contrast ratio when using the color for texts.
Interior Design
In interior design, #173C47 can be used to create a serene and sophisticated ambiance in living spaces or bedrooms. It works well as an accent wall color or for upholstery, especially when combined with natural materials like wood or stone. The color can be paired with warm neutrals such as beige or cream to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Also consider metallic accents like copper or gold to add a touch of elegance. The color is also a great choice for offices, promoting focus and reducing stress.
Fashion
In fashion, #173C47 can be used to create a elegant, understated look. It works well for outerwear or accessories, especially in autumn or winter collections. This color can be combined with neutral colors such as gray or black, as well as earthy tones such as rust or olive green. Consider using this color for scarves, handbags, or gloves to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. It's a versatile color that complements various skin tones and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.