El Paso
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #1E1A08, often referred to as "El Paso", is a dark shade of brown with a subtle golden undertone. It belongs to the earth tone family and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance. In the RGB color model, #1E1A08 is composed of 12.16% red, 10.2% green, and 3.14% blue. This combination gives it a muted and somewhat desaturated appearance. It is often associated with feelings of warmth, stability, and nature. Its hexadecimal nature makes it ideal for digital applications across web and graphic design.
The color #1E1A08, also known as El Paso, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its very low luminance makes it difficult to perceive for individuals with low vision or color blindness. The contrast ratio against a white background is extremely poor, failing to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for text and non-text contrast. Therefore, it's crucial to avoid using this color for text, essential icons, or interactive elements without providing a significantly lighter foreground color to ensure readability and usability. Proper contrast checking tools should be employed to validate any color combinations used in conjunction with #1E1A08. Consider alternative, lighter colors for improved accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #343017
A slightly lighter shade of brown, offering better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #4f452b
A muted gold color, providing a richer visual experience and better accessibility than the original color.
- #524b31
An earth tone with sufficient contrast against a white or light background.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #1E1A08 can serve as an accent color for backgrounds or borders, especially when aiming for an earthy or vintage aesthetic. However, due to its low contrast, it should be used sparingly and never for essential text or interactive elements. When used, ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements using a color contrast checker. For example, pair it with light beige or cream colors to ensure readability. Moreover, consider using it for decorative elements where accessibility is not a primary concern.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #1E1A08 can be used as a subtle, grounding color for walls in spaces intended to evoke a sense of warmth and intimacy, such as studies or reading nooks. Its dark nature makes it suitable for creating a cozy atmosphere when paired with lighter furniture and textiles. Furthermore, it can be used for accent pieces like picture frames or small decorative items to add depth to a room's color palette. The color works well in combination with natural wood tones and warm lighting.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, #1E1A08 can be incorporated into clothing designs as a subtle accent color or as a base for creating earthy, natural looks. It can be used for accessories like belts, bags, or shoes to add a touch of understated elegance. When combined with lighter, brighter colors, it provides a grounding effect and enhances the overall aesthetic. The color works exceptionally well with natural fabrics like linen and cotton, creating a harmonious and stylish ensemble.