Steel Gray
General Information about #1E1F36
The hexadecimal color code #1E1F36 represents a dark shade of steel gray. In the RGB color model, it consists of 12.55% red, 12.94% green, and 21.18% blue. This composition places it within the cooler spectrum of colors, lending it a calming and sophisticated aesthetic. The color is often associated with modernity, professionalism, and stability. In color psychology, gray is considered a neutral color that can evoke feelings of balance and neutrality. Because of its dark nature it can be used as a dark background. The color is commonly used in various design applications, ranging from web development to interior design, where its versatility and understated elegance are highly valued.
The hex color #1e1f36, a deep steel gray, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its low luminance requires careful attention to color contrast. When used as text, it's crucial to pair it with a light background to ensure sufficient contrast ratio, ideally meeting WCAG AA standards (4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Using online contrast checkers is recommended to verify compliance. If used for purely decorative elements, the contrast requirements are relaxed, but user experience should still be a priority. It's important to avoid using this color for essential visual cues without providing alternative identification methods such as text labels or icons. Ensuring sufficient spacing and sizing of interactive elements also enhances usability for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Backgrounds and UI Elements
Steel gray is a sophisticated choice for website backgrounds, particularly for tech companies or professional service firms. It communicates stability and competence, especially when paired with clean, modern typography and ample white space. Dark backgrounds need good contrast. The color can also be used for UI elements such as buttons or navigation bars, offering a subtle and unobtrusive aesthetic. Dark mode themes often benefit from this color in UI design, providing a sleek and modern look.
Interior Design
In interior design, steel gray serves as a versatile neutral that can complement various styles, from industrial to contemporary. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces, providing a grounding element to a space. When paired with warmer tones such as wood or copper, it creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Lighter shades of gray work well in small spaces, while darker shades can add drama to larger rooms. Metallic or reflective surfaces also enhance the color's depth and visual appeal.
Fashion and Apparel
Steel gray is a popular choice in fashion for its understated elegance and versatility. It can be used for clothing items such as suits, jackets, or dresses, offering a polished and refined look. It pairs well with a wide range of colors, making it easy to create diverse outfits. In accessories such as handbags or shoes, it adds a touch of sophistication without being overpowering. The color's neutrality also makes it suitable for both casual and formal attire.