Elephant
General Information about #183840
The hex color #183840, often referred to as 'Elephant', is a dark, desaturated shade of blue-gray. It falls within the realm of cool colors and evokes a sense of calm, stability, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #183840 is composed of 9.41% red, 21.96% green, and 25.1% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.62, 0.13, 0.00, 0.75, indicating that it requires a significant amount of cyan to achieve its characteristic hue. This color is frequently employed in design to convey professionalism, trustworthiness, and a sense of understated elegance. Its muted nature allows it to blend seamlessly into various color schemes, serving as a neutral backdrop or a grounding element.
The color #183840, a deep, muted grayish-blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to select text colors that offer sufficient contrast to ensure readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. White or very light shades of yellow or green would likely be necessary to meet these standards. Using a color contrast checker is highly advisable during the design process. Also, avoid using this color for elements that rely solely on color to convey meaning, as users with color vision deficiencies may struggle to differentiate them. Providing alternative visual cues, such as text labels or icons, is essential for inclusivity. When using this color for interactive elements, ensure the focus state is clearly visible to users navigating with keyboards or assistive technologies. Proper attention to these factors will ensure that the website or application is accessible to a broader audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #284850
A slightly lighter shade that maintains the sophistication but provides better contrast against dark text.
- #333333
A more neutral grey that can be used as a background without overpowering content.
- #486870
A lighter, softer alternative that still has a calming effect but with improved readability.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #183840 can be utilized for creating a sophisticated and professional ambiance. It's suitable for backgrounds, headers, or sidebars, particularly for websites in the finance, technology, or consulting sectors. When implementing this color, careful consideration must be given to the text color to ensure optimal readability, ideally achieving a high contrast ratio as per accessibility standards. For instance, pairing #183840 with a light text color like #FFFFFF would create a visually appealing and accessible design. Furthermore, #183840 can be used in creating elegant button designs or subtle dividers, enhancing the overall user interface while maintaining a consistent aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, #183840 serves as a grounding, neutral backdrop that complements warmer, brighter accents. This color evokes a sense of tranquility and depth, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or studies. When incorporated as a wall color, it can create a calming atmosphere while still allowing for pops of color through artwork, furniture, or decorative accessories. It pairs exceptionally well with natural wood tones, metallic finishes, and soft textiles, resulting in a harmonious and inviting space. Moreover, this versatile color can be used in smaller doses, such as accent walls or painted furniture, to add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the room.
Fashion
In fashion, #183840 can be used for creating elegant and understated looks. It serves as a versatile neutral that pairs well with a wide range of colors, from vibrant jewel tones to softer pastels. This color is often seen in sophisticated business attire or evening wear, adding a touch of refinement to the overall aesthetic. Consider using it for creating a monochrome look or combine it with other neutral colors for a sophisticated feel. When incorporating #183840 into your wardrobe, think about how it can be layered with different textures and fabrics to create depth and visual interest.