Creole
General Information about #1A0D06
The hex color #1A0D06, often referred to as 'Creole', is a very dark shade of brown. It sits low on the color value scale, characterized by very small amounts of red, green, and blue. The color is reminiscent of deep earth tones, burnt umber, or dark chocolate. Due to its subdued nature, it does not appear vibrant. The color's darkness makes it unsuitable for situations where high contrast is needed, such as body text on a webpage. It is more apt for background elements, decorative accents, or situations where a subtle, grounding color is desired. The name Creole suggests a rich, mixed heritage, hinting at warmth and earthiness. This color is generally perceived as sophisticated, subdued, and can be used to create a sense of depth or history in designs. In summary it has a RGB(26, 13, 6) color value and has almost zero luminosity.
The hex color #1A0D06, also known as Creole, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very low luminance value of approximately 1.1 cd/m² results in extremely poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and other elements rendered in this color difficult to discern. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Creole falls far short of these recommendations, failing most contrast tests. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to use Creole sparingly and primarily in decorative contexts, such as backgrounds or borders, where information is not conveyed solely through color. When used with text or interactive elements, it must be paired with a very light color to meet contrast requirements and ensure readability for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e1a0a
A slightly lighter shade of brown, providing better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray that offers improved readability against light backgrounds.
- #341c09
A dark chocolate brown that retains some of the richness of the original color but with better contrast
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Creole can be used as a background color for website sections that aim to evoke a sense of warmth, earthiness, or vintage aesthetics. However, due to its low contrast, it's best suited for areas where text is minimal or absent. Employ it sparingly to create visual interest without compromising readability.
Fashion Accents
In fashion, Creole can be used as an accent color in clothing designs, particularly for accessories like belts, bags, or shoes. It pairs well with lighter, more vibrant colors to create a balanced and sophisticated look. Its subtle nature makes it a versatile choice for adding depth and richness to an outfit.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Creole can be used as a paint color for accent walls or as a color for furniture upholstery. It creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, particularly in living rooms or bedrooms. When used in interior spaces, ensure adequate lighting to offset the color's darkness and maintain a sense of brightness and openness. Combine with lighter hues such as cream or beige to prevent the room from feeling too closed in.