Steel Gray
General Information about Steel Gray
The hexadecimal color code #1C2835 represents a dark shade of gray-blue, often referred to as Steel Gray. It is composed of 11% red, 16.1% green, and 21.6% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 28 red, 40 green, and 53 blue. The CMYK representation is 47% cyan, 24.5% magenta, 0% yellow, and 78.4% black. This color is frequently used in designs that require a sense of sophistication, neutrality, or understated elegance. It is often found in corporate branding, website backgrounds, and interior design where a muted and professional appearance is desired. The color's relatively low brightness can make it challenging to use as a primary text color without careful consideration of contrast.
The hex color #1C2835, also known as Steel Gray, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Due to its low lightness value, it offers limited contrast against common background colors like white. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability, particularly for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's advisable to pair this color with lighter shades for text or graphical elements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools are available online to check the contrast ratio between different color combinations. When using #1C2835 for interactive elements, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, to enhance distinguishability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter gray that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility for a wider range of users.
- #000000
A darker shade that can be used for backgrounds or borders, complementing lighter elements in a design.
- #808080
A neutral gray that offers a balance between darkness and lightness, suitable for various design purposes.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Steel Gray can be used for website backgrounds, header sections, and footer areas to create a sophisticated and understated look. Its neutrality makes it suitable for sites that want to convey professionalism or reliability. It can also be used in the design of icons, buttons, and other user interface elements, provided sufficient contrast with text and other elements is maintained. It is often combined with white or other light colors to improve readability and ensure accessibility. This is especially useful in sections where large amounts of text are present.
Fashion and Interiour Design
Steel Gray is a popular choice for fashion designers looking to create garments that are both stylish and versatile. It is a neutral color that can be easily paired with other colors, making it suitable for a variety of styles. For example, it can be used for outerwear, such as jackets and coats, as well as for trousers, skirts, and dresses. Accessorizing steel gray clothing with brighter colors can create a visually appealing contrast. In interior design, Steel Gray is often used for walls, flooring, and furniture to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials such as wood and stone.
Product Design
Steel Gray is a common selection for product design, lending an air of sophistication and durability to devices and electronics. Its neutrality allows it to blend seamlessly into various environments, making it ideal for laptops, smartphones, and other gadgets. Additionally, Steel Gray serves as a reliable choice for automotive design, frequently employed for vehicle exteriors and interiors. Its sleek appearance conveys a sense of modernity and elegance, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of cars and trucks. The color's understated nature makes it a versatile option for both consumer and industrial applications.