Shark
General Information about #1A232E
The hex color #1A232E, also known as Shark, is a dark, muted shade of gray. It belongs to the family of neutral colors and is often associated with sophistication, modernity, and elegance. In the RGB color model, #1A232E is composed of 10.2% red, 13.7% green, and 18% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.43, 0.23, 0.00, 0.82, indicating that it contains 43% cyan, 23% magenta, and no yellow, with 82% black. The color has a relatively low saturation and brightness, contributing to its subdued appearance. It's commonly used in various design applications, including web design, graphic design, and interior design, where a dark, neutral background or accent color is desired.
The hex color #1A232E, also known as Shark, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Its low luminance value (it's a dark shade) means that it requires light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to ensure that any text on a #1A232E background meets these standards. If contrast is insufficient, consider lightening the color slightly or using a brighter text color. Also, avoid using this color for essential UI elements without proper contrast, as it could hinder usability for users with visual impairments. Always test your color choices with accessibility tools to confirm compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that offers better readability when used as a background color with white text.
A similar color with a bit more saturation, which can make it more visually appealing while remaining dark.
A neutral grey alternative that pairs well with brighter accent colors, for a clean look.
Applications
Dark Theme Web Design
In web development, #1A232E is often utilized for creating dark-themed website designs. It works exceptionally well for backgrounds, headers, and footers, providing a sophisticated and modern feel. When combined with light-colored text and vibrant accents, it can create a visually striking and user-friendly interface. This color is also useful for creating a sense of depth and shadow in design elements, adding a touch of elegance to the overall aesthetic. Dark themes are known to reduce eye strain, especially in low-light conditions, making #1A232E a practical choice for websites and applications designed for prolonged use.
Sophisticated Interior Accents
In interior design, #1A232E, or Shark, can be used to create a sophisticated and cozy atmosphere. This dark hue works effectively as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms. When paired with lighter furniture and accessories, it creates a striking contrast that adds depth and dimension to the space. The color can also be incorporated into textiles such as curtains, rugs, and cushions for a cohesive design scheme. To avoid a gloomy ambiance, it's essential to balance the dark tones with ample natural light and strategic lighting fixtures. Using metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance the color's richness and create a luxurious look.
Sleek Modern Apparel
In fashion, #1A232E is a versatile color choice, often used in creating sleek and modern apparel. As a dark neutral, it can form the base of an outfit, allowing for bolder accessories or statement pieces to stand out. It's a popular color for outerwear like jackets and coats, offering a timeless look that transitions easily from day to night. In evening wear, this color can be very elegant, particularly when used in fabrics with interesting textures, such as velvet or silk. It is also well-suited for footwear and bags, creating a coordinated and stylish ensemble.