Paua
General Information about #1A0166 (Paua)
The hexadecimal color #1A0166, often referred to as "Paua," is a deep, saturated shade of purple. It belongs to the family of violet colors and evokes a sense of mystery, sophistication, and creativity. In the RGB color model, #1A0166 is composed of 10.2% red, 0.4% green, and 40% blue. This specific combination of primary colors results in a color that is strongly biased towards the blue end of the spectrum. The color is named after the New Zealand Paua sea snail, which is known for its iridescent shell. This deep purple color is frequently used to express luxury, power, or magic. The color can also be used to create a dramatic or mysterious feel.
The hex color #1A0166, also known as Paua, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its dark hue results in very low contrast against light backgrounds, potentially making text or interactive elements unreadable for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To ensure accessibility, pair #1A0166 with very light colors, such as white or light yellows, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using it with mid-tone or dark colors. Also, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or text labels, alongside color-coded elements to help users who cannot distinguish colors. Proper testing with accessibility tools is essential to validate that your design meets accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3f0071
A slightly lighter shade of purple, offering improved contrast on white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #301934
A deep indigo that provides a higher contrast ratio than Paua, making it more accessible for text and UI elements.
- #4b0082
This colour is a more vibrant version of Paua and will be useful when the design requires a brighter feel.
Applications
Sophisticated Web Backgrounds
In web design, #1A0166 can be employed to create a sophisticated and mysterious ambiance. It's particularly suitable for backgrounds in portfolio websites for artists or designers aiming to showcase creativity and depth. The color can also be used sparingly for decorative elements like borders or accents to add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the user interface. Ensure the color is balanced with lighter contrasting elements to maintain readability and accessibility.
Dramatic Eyeshadow and Nail Polish
In the beauty industry, #1A0166 can be used as an eyeshadow color to create a dramatic, smoky eye look. It can also be incorporated into nail polish collections, offering a deep, luxurious shade that complements evening wear. When used in makeup packaging, this color conveys sophistication and premium quality, appealing to consumers seeking high-end products. The color can be used to create a long lasting impression on the customer.
Fashion Color for sophisticated garments
In fashion, this colour will be perfect in combination with golden jewellery and details. It will also look great in combination with black, grey or white. It will be perfect for the red carpet to create a sophisticated impression. You can use it as the color of the main dress, or you can use it as the colour of details such as scarfs, bags or shoes.