Creole
General Information about Creole (#1B0A00)
The hex color #1B0A00, often referred to as "Creole," is a very dark shade of brown. It sits at the lower end of the color spectrum in terms of lightness, bordering on black. In the RGB color model, it consists of 11% Red, 4% Green, and 0% Blue. This composition gives it a muted, earthy tone. Due to its low luminance, it is perceived as a deep, rich color that can evoke feelings of warmth and sophistication. In color theory, this color may not be used extensively on digital interfaces due to its poor readability on standard backgrounds. However, the hex color is useful in other design contexts.
The hex color #1B0A00, also known as Creole, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely dark nature. With very low luminance, it offers insufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially making text and interactive elements illegible for users with visual impairments. Web developers should avoid using this color for text or important UI elements unless paired with a very light background color to ensure a contrast ratio that meets WCAG guidelines (at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Proper contrast is crucial for users with low vision, color blindness, or those browsing in bright sunlight. Thoroughly test color combinations using accessibility tools to guarantee readability and usability for all users. Consider offering alternative color themes to allow users to customize their viewing experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2c1300
A slightly lighter shade that maintains the warmth of Creole but offers better contrast.
- #3d2b1f
A muted brown that provides a similar aesthetic while being more accessible.
- #301e0e
Dark bronze color provides a richer, but subtly different, look while possibly improving contrast ratios depending on the background.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Creole (#1B0A00) can be used sparingly as an accent color for backgrounds or borders to evoke a sense of sophistication and earthiness. However, it should not be used for text or interactive elements due to its poor contrast. Consider using it for decorative elements or in combination with lighter shades to create a visually appealing and accessible design. For example, this color could be implemented to highlight specific sections of a website, such as a footer or a call-to-action button, if paired with very light and readable text.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Creole can be used to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It works well in small doses, such as for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. When combined with natural textures and warm lighting, Creole can add depth and character to a space. However, it's important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark and overwhelming. This color could be an excellent selection for a library or study area.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, Creole can be incorporated into clothing and accessories for a touch of understated elegance. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, cream, and gray, as well as warmer tones like gold and copper. Consider using it for leather goods, knitwear, or as a subtle detail in a patterned fabric. This color is not typically suitable for dominant pieces due to its darkness, but it offers a grounding presence as a supplemental tone, especially in cold-weather wardrobes.