Creole
General Information about Creole (#1A0D03)
The hex color #1A0D03, also known as Creole, is a very dark, subdued shade of brown. It belongs to a color family that evokes feelings of earthiness, warmth, and antiquity. In the RGB color model, #1A0D03 is composed of 10.2% red, 5.1% green, and 1.2% blue. Its CMYK values are 0% cyan, 50% magenta, 88.2% yellow, and 89.8% black. This color is often associated with nature, tradition, and a sense of groundedness. Due to its low luminance, it is best used as an accent or background color rather than for primary text. Its versatility allows it to be integrated into various design palettes, particularly those aiming for a vintage or rustic aesthetic, and pairs well with lighter, contrasting colors to create visual interest and maintain readability.
The hex color #1A0D03, also known as Creole, has very low luminance, which presents significant accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white (#FFFFFF) is extremely low, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to discern text or other elements using this color as a foreground. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Creole falls far short of these recommendations. To improve accessibility, it is advisable to pair Creole with very light colors to ensure sufficient contrast. Using it for decorative purposes where readability is not crucial is also a viable option. Consider providing alternative color schemes to cater to users with different visual needs, thus enhancing the overall user experience and inclusivity of the design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2a1708
A slightly lighter shade that provides marginally better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can serve as a safer alternative for text and interactive elements.
- #ffffff
Using white instead of #1A0D03 provides the best contrast and is the most readable option. For example, using white text or icons on a black background
Applications
Website Background Accent
In web design, Creole can be utilized as a subtle background accent to evoke a sense of antiquity or earthiness. It's best suited for sections where high readability is not paramount, such as decorative banners or non-interactive elements. Due to its dark nature, careful consideration should be given to ensure sufficient contrast with any overlaid text or interactive components. For instance, pairing it with light beige or off-white text can create a visually appealing contrast. Ensure sufficient testing with accessibility tools to guarantee compliance with WCAG guidelines, thereby providing an inclusive user experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Creole can serve as an accent color for creating a cozy and warm ambiance. It can be used for painting a feature wall in a living room or bedroom, bringing a sense of depth and sophistication to the space. When paired with lighter, neutral tones like cream or beige, it can create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Consider incorporating textures such as wood or natural fabrics to enhance the overall sensory experience and complement the richness of Creole.
Fashion
In fashion, creole can be used as a foundational color for a sophisticated fall or winter outfit. Envision a dark brown leather jacket or a pair of wool trousers, paired with lighter creams or beige to create a balanced and stylish look. For accessories, think of incorporating gold or bronze accents to enhance the richness of the color. Ensure that the fabrics used have a subtle texture to add depth and visual interest. The color works well with both matte and slightly lustrous materials.