Vulcan
General Information about #18171D
The hexadecimal color code #18171D, often referred to as 'Vulcan', represents a very dark shade of grayish-blue. It falls into the category of near-black colors, possessing low saturation and luminance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.41% red, 8.63% green, and 11.37% blue. This subtle blend creates a muted, sophisticated tone often associated with elegance and subtlety. Because of its nature as a near-black color, it can be used in various design contexts where a strong, grounding color is needed without the starkness of pure black. However, it's crucial to consider the color's accessibility, given its low luminance, and ensure adequate contrast with other elements in a design.
The hex color #18171D, also known as Vulcan, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very low luminance. Its dark nature means that it provides insufficient contrast against similarly dark backgrounds, making text and interface elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, it is crucial to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Vulcan would likely fail these criteria against many common background colors. Designers must be extremely cautious when using this color and should always test it with accessibility evaluation tools to verify compliance. Consider pairing it with much lighter colors to ensure readability and usability for all users. Using it for purely decorative elements that do not convey essential information can be acceptable, but even then, its impact on users with sensitivities should be considered.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Dark UI Themes
In user interface design, Vulcan (#18171D) can be used sparingly for dark-themed applications or websites. It's suitable for backgrounds of secondary panels or as an accent color in specific UI elements, such as buttons and borders, provided sufficient contrast with foreground text and icons is maintained. Its dark and subtle nature makes it a good choice for reducing eye strain in low-light environments. However, avoid using it as the primary background color for content-heavy areas, as it can lead to readability issues. Consider combining it with lighter accent colors to create visual interest and improve the overall user experience, and remember accessibility guidelines.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Vulcan can create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere, when used wisely. It's suitable for accent walls in a living room or bedroom, providing a dark, grounding element. Consider pairing it with lighter, warmer colors like beige or light gray to create a balanced and inviting space. Use it for furniture pieces like sofas or cabinets to add depth and contrast. It's particularly effective in creating a modern or minimalist aesthetic. Ensure the room has ample natural or artificial light to prevent it from feeling too dark and enclosed. Accessorize with metallic elements to enhance its elegance.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion industry, Vulcan can be utilized as a base color for garments aiming for a sleek, modern, and understated appearance. It works exceptionally well for outerwear like jackets and coats, or for creating sophisticated evening wear. As a very dark, nearly black, color, it pairs well with brighter accent colors for accessories like scarves, handbags, or jewelry, allowing these items to stand out. It can also be used in athleisure wear for a more subdued and refined look. Textures like leather or velvet can enhance the depth of the color. When choosing clothing, consider how the color interacts with different skin tones to create a flattering aesthetic.