Mirage
General Information
The hex color #181E23, often referred to as "Mirage," is a dark, desaturated shade of blue-gray. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.41% red, 11.76% green, and 13.73% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.31, 0.15, 0.00, 0.86, meaning it requires a significant amount of black to achieve its depth. Mirage is frequently used in designs where a sense of sophistication, calm, or mystery is desired. Its low saturation makes it a versatile background or accent color that doesn't overpower other elements. The color is commonly associated with night, shadows, and a subtle, understated elegance. Due to its darkness, it's crucial to pair it with lighter colors to ensure readability and visual clarity.
The hex color #181E23, also known as Mirage, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly concerning text legibility. Due to its dark nature, using it as a background color necessitates light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #181E23 for backgrounds, verify that the foreground text meets these contrast requirements to accommodate users with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can be invaluable in this process. Furthermore, avoid using color alone to convey important information, as users with color blindness may not be able to differentiate it. Always provide alternative cues such as text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #282e33
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast with white text while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #1e2833
A color with a touch more blue to provide a cooler tone and visual separation from the main color.
- #202020
A neutral grey that serves as a desaturated alternative, suitable for backgrounds where a less intense color is preferred.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Mirage (#181E23) is often employed as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sense of sophistication and depth. Its dark hue allows for light-colored text and elements to stand out, improving readability and visual hierarchy. It's also well-suited for dark mode interfaces, providing a comfortable viewing experience in low-light environments. Consider using it to section off different parts of your webpage, such as a hero section or a sidebar, to add subtle definition to the overall layout. Moreover, in combination with brighter accent colors, it contributes to a modern and stylish aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, Mirage can be used as an accent wall color in modern or minimalist spaces. Its dark and muted tone creates a sophisticated and calming atmosphere, allowing brighter decor elements and furniture to pop. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms or home offices where a sense of tranquility is desired. Combine it with natural materials like wood or stone to enhance its grounding effect. It can also be used for cabinetry or shelving to add a touch of elegance without being overly dominant. Overall, Mirage brings depth and sophistication to a space, making it feel cozy and refined.
Fashion
In fashion, Mirage can be used as the primary color in a minimalist wardrobe. Its dark and neutral tone pairs well with many accent colors and other neutrals, allowing it to be used in multiple seasons. In textile design, it can be used as the base color of a complex and rich pattern or print. It adds depth without stealing focus. Furthermore, it could be used as the dark shade to create an ombre effect.