Elephant
General Information
The hexadecimal color #183442, often referred to as 'Elephant', is a dark, muted shade of blue-gray. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.41% red, 20.39% green, and 25.88% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 64% cyan, 21% magenta, 0% yellow, and 74% black. This color evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. Due to its low saturation and relatively dark value, it is often used to create a subtle, elegant, or professional appearance. In color psychology, colors similar to #183442 are often associated with reliability, intelligence, and conservatism.
The color #183442, also known as Elephant, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using a color contrast checker is advisable to verify compliance. Due to its darkness, this color may not be suitable for conveying subtle information or interactive elements where visibility is crucial for usability. Also, avoid pairing it with other dark colors, as this would significantly reduce visibility. Consideration should be given to users with visual impairments when incorporating this color into designs, ensuring sufficient contrast for a positive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #36454f
A lighter shade that provides better contrast for text and other elements, improving readability and accessibility.
- #a9a9a9
A neutral grey that works well as a background color, offering sufficient contrast with both light and dark text.
- #2f4f4f
This alternative provides a modern look with increased visibility
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #183442 can be utilized to create a sophisticated and muted aesthetic. It is suitable for backgrounds, headers, or other visual elements where a subtle, professional appearance is desired. When combined with lighter contrasting colors for text and interactive elements, it can contribute to a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. This color could be applied on websites for financial institutions, corporate platforms, or educational portals seeking a touch of understated elegance.
Interior Design
Within interior design, the 'Elephant' color can bring a sense of depth and calm to spaces. It works effectively as a wall color in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies, creating a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. When paired with lighter furniture and accent colors, it balances the room, preventing it from feeling too dark. It may also be suitable for cabinetry or accent walls, adding a touch of sophistication and visual interest without being overpowering. The 'Elephant' hue pairs well with natural materials such as wood, stone, and linen.
Fashion
In fashion, #183442 offers a versatile and elegant option for clothing and accessories. It serves well as a base color for garments like coats, dresses, or trousers, projecting a refined and understated look. It can also be used for accessories such as handbags, belts, or scarves, adding a subtle touch of sophistication to an outfit. This color is perfect for creating classic and timeless styles. Pair it with lighter, brighter hues to create contrast and visual interest, or with other neutrals for a monochromatic look.