Mirage
General Information about #1A1C1E (Mirage)
The hexadecimal color code #1A1C1E, often referred to as "Mirage," represents a very dark shade of gray. It is composed of 10.2% red, 11% green, and 11.8% blue. In the RGB color space, it is characterized by these low values, contributing to its dark appearance. The color is commonly perceived as a near-black, with subtle variations that distinguish it from pure black (#000000). Mirage is often utilized in designs aiming for a sophisticated, muted, or modern aesthetic. It can also serve as a less harsh alternative to pure black, providing a softer visual impact while still maintaining a dark and grounding presence. Its subtle nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds, text, and other design elements.
The color #1A1C1E, also known as Mirage, presents challenges from an accessibility standpoint. Its low luminance of approximately 3 cd/m² means that text rendered in this color requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) against a background. Given Mirage's darkness, only very light colors like white or bright yellows would achieve sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help developers ensure their color combinations meet accessibility standards. Using this color for backgrounds or as a primary text color without adequate contrast can exclude users with visual impairments. Designers should consider providing alternative themes with higher contrast options to accommodate a wider range of users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that provides a bit more visibility while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
A near-black color that still offers a touch of visual interest and complexity compared to pure black.
A dark grey that can provide a little more differentiation between elements on a page.
Applications
Dark Mode Website Design
Mirage (#1A1C1E) is well-suited for website backgrounds, particularly for dark mode designs. Its near-black hue provides a sophisticated and modern look while reducing eye strain in low-light environments. It can also be used for UI elements like sidebars, navigation menus, and footers to create a cohesive and visually appealing dark theme. In graphic design, it can act as a subtle background for posters or digital art, allowing brighter elements to pop. Combining it with vibrant accent colors can create a striking visual contrast.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, Mirage can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture in rooms where a calming and sophisticated atmosphere is desired. It pairs well with lighter greys, whites, and natural wood tones. For fashion, this color makes a great choice for base layers of outfits, such as t-shirts and trousers, that will pair well with multiple colours. This shade makes for an elegant touch to any clothing design, especially when accompanied by lighter contrasting accents.
Product Packaging and Digital Art
Mirage can serve as an excellent base color for product packaging, lending an air of sophistication and elegance to the product. Its understated nature allows the product's branding and features to take center stage. In digital art, it can be used to create shadowy effects or as a muted background, enhancing the depth and dimensionality of the artwork. It's particularly effective in minimalist designs where subtle color variations add visual interest.