Nero
General Information about Nero (#180403)
The hex color #180403, also known as Nero, is a very dark shade of red-brown. It is composed of 9.4% red, 1.6% green, and 1.2% blue. In the RGB color space, it is very close to black due to its very low values across all three primary colors. Nero is often associated with sophistication, elegance, and mystery. It can be used to create a sense of drama or intensity in design projects. However, due to its very low luminance, it should be used sparingly, especially for text or interactive elements, to ensure sufficient contrast and accessibility. In terms of perception, #180403 evokes feelings of power, formality, and sometimes even melancholy. Its muted nature makes it suitable for backgrounds or accents when a subtle, yet impactful statement is desired. This color is found in a variety of applications, especially in design.
The hex color #180403, also known as Nero, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value of 0.008 results in very poor contrast against almost any background color, including white. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. Text or interactive elements using #180403 on a white background would fail even the strictest AAA conformance level. To improve accessibility, it is strongly advised to avoid using #180403 for text, icons, or other essential user interface components. If this color is indispensable for branding purposes, consider using it sparingly and only for decorative elements that do not convey critical information. Pair it with much lighter colors to ensure sufficient contrast and meet accessibility standards, or use larger font sizes and heavier font weights to improve legibility. Additionally, providing alternative high-contrast themes or color options for users with visual impairments is highly recommended.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Subtle Background Accent
In web design, Nero (#180403) can be employed sparingly as a background accent in specific sections to evoke a sense of mystery or luxury. For instance, it could serve as a header or footer background, paired with light-colored text for contrast. However, due to its dark nature, it should not be used for large blocks of text or interactive elements as it compromises readability and accessibility. Nero can also be creatively applied to website illustrations or graphics to add depth and visual interest, provided it complements the overall color scheme and does not hinder user experience.
Edgy Fashion Statement
In fashion, Nero can be a sophisticated choice for creating a bold, edgy look. Imagine a sleek, minimalist dress in this shade, accented with metallic accessories for a striking contrast. It can also be used for leather accessories such as belts or handbags, adding a touch of dark elegance to any outfit. However, because the color is so dark, it is typically used in formal and dark settings, like a goth fashion style or a cocktail party dress.
Dramatic Interior Accent
In interior design, Nero can be used to create dramatic focal points in a room. Consider using it as an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, paired with lighter colors to balance the darkness. It can also be applied to furniture pieces such as a sofa or a coffee table, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to the space. However, it should be used judiciously to prevent the room from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. It is best to use it in contrast to lighter and brighter elements of the room, like lighting or wall decorations.