Creole
General Information about Creole (#1A0C05)
The hex color #1A0C05, commonly known as Creole, is a very dark shade of brown. It is composed of 10.2% red, 4.7% green, and 2% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a very low intensity of all three primary colors, resulting in its deep, muted tone. The color is often associated with earthiness, warmth, and a sense of grounding. In terms of color theory, Creole can be categorized as a shade, created by adding black to a base hue. This manipulation darkens the original color, giving it a more subdued appearance. Its dark nature makes it best suited for use as an accent color or in situations where a subtle, understated background is desired. The color's density provides a strong visual anchor, but it is essential to use it carefully to ensure adequate contrast and readability when paired with other elements.
The hex color #1A0C05, also known as Creole, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against typical light-colored backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to discern text or interface elements. To ensure inclusivity, it is crucial to pair Creole with very light colors that provide a contrast ratio meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Furthermore, avoid using this color for crucial interactive elements, unless accompanied by clear visual cues and sufficient contrast. Consider providing alternative color schemes that offer better contrast for users with visual impairments. Thoroughly testing the color combination with accessibility evaluation tools is essential to validate its compliance with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Backgrounds and Branding
Creole (#1A0C05) can be used in website design to create a sophisticated and grounded aesthetic. It is suited for backgrounds where subtle textures and depth are desired, evoking a sense of earthiness and stability. When paired with lighter complementary colors like beige or cream, it helps highlight content and interactive elements effectively. Furthermore, in branding, Creole is excellent for conveying a sense of tradition, quality, and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in fields such as artisanal goods, heritage brands, or premium coffee and chocolate businesses. Consider using it sparingly to maintain visual appeal and ensure accessibility.
Interiors and Fashion
In interior design, Creole can be used to paint accent walls in living rooms or studies to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather, enhancing the feeling of warmth and sophistication. In the fashion industry, Creole serves as a grounding color for autumn and winter collections. It can be used for garments such as coats, sweaters, and trousers, often complemented with lighter shades like gold or mustard to add a touch of elegance and visual interest. Its versatility makes it a timeless choice for various applications.
Digital Art and Graphic Design
In the realm of digital art and graphic design, Creole can serve as an excellent choice for creating shadows and depth in illustrations or adding a touch of vintage aesthetics to digital artworks. The deep and muted tone of Creole can be strategically employed to create the illusion of three-dimensionality, enhancing the visual appeal and realism of illustrations. Furthermore, in graphic design, Creole can be utilized to convey a sense of history, tradition, or nostalgia, making it a suitable choice for projects aimed at evoking a classic or timeless feel.