Creole
General Information about Creole (#1E0909)
The hex color #1E0909, also referred to as 'Creole', is a dark, muted shade of reddish-brown. It belongs to the family of dark browns and has a subdued, earthy quality. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 12.2% red, 3.5% green, and 3.5% blue. This color evokes a sense of warmth, depth, and subtle richness. Its name, 'Creole', suggests a connection to cultures and traditions with mixed heritages, hinting at a blend of influences and characteristics. The color's dark tone makes it suitable for creating a sophisticated and grounding effect in design projects. It is often associated with feelings of stability, earthiness, and understated elegance, making it a versatile choice for various applications.
The hex color #1E0909, also known as Creole, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its very low luminance makes it difficult to distinguish from darker backgrounds, violating WCAG contrast ratio requirements for text and interactive elements. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to avoid using #1E0909 for text or interactive elements against dark backgrounds. If this color is essential for branding, consider using it sparingly for purely decorative purposes. Pairing it with very light colors can improve contrast but should be tested rigorously with accessibility tools. Also, providing text alternatives for any non-text content using this color is necessary to comply with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive experience for all users, including those with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved visibility while maintaining a similar dark, rich tone.
A more neutral dark brown that provides better contrast against various backgrounds.
A less intense dark red which is more legible in UI elements and better perceived by colorblind users.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #1E0909 can be used sparingly for background accents or as a subtle highlight color to convey a sense of luxury and sophistication. It's best suited for elements that don't require high visibility, such as decorative lines or non-interactive graphical elements. Avoid using it for text or buttons due to its low contrast. When used, ensure sufficient contrast with surrounding elements to meet accessibility standards, and consider using a lighter shade of brown or beige to complement it and create a balanced visual hierarchy.
Interior Design: Accent Walls
In interior design, Creole can be incorporated as a wall color in small, intimate spaces like a study or a reading nook to create a cozy and enveloping atmosphere. It pairs well with warm metallic accents like gold or bronze, and natural materials such as leather and dark wood. When using this color, ensure that the room has ample lighting to prevent it from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. Contrast it with lighter textiles and furniture to balance the depth of the wall color.
Fashion: Evening Wear
In fashion, Creole can be a sophisticated choice for evening wear or accessories, conveying elegance and refinement. Consider using it for velvet dresses, leather handbags, or statement jewelry. It can be paired with lighter colors like cream or gold to create a striking contrast and prevent the outfit from appearing too somber. Given its dark nature, it's most suitable for formal occasions or for adding a touch of drama to everyday outfits.