Shark
General Information about #1E202B
The hex color #1E202B, also known as Shark, is a dark, muted shade of gray. It belongs to the family of achromatic colors, which are characterized by the absence of strong chromaticity. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 12.9% red, 12.5% green, and 16.9% blue. The low percentages across all three channels contribute to its dark and desaturated appearance. In the CMYK color model, it translates to approximately 23.7% cyan, 26.2% magenta, 0% yellow, and 83.1% black. This color is commonly used in designs where a subtle and understated aesthetic is desired, often conveying a sense of sophistication and neutrality. Due to its darkness, it's often paired with lighter colors to provide contrast and legibility.
The hex color #1E202B, also known as Shark, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of approximately 4 results in a very dark color. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires a very light background color to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #1E202B on a mid-tone or dark background would likely fail these criteria, making the text difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, pair #1E202B with very light colors like #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #1E202B can be used for website backgrounds, particularly in minimalist or dark-themed designs. It provides a sophisticated and modern feel when used sparingly and in conjunction with contrasting elements. Consider employing it for headers or footers to give a website a more professional appearance. The dark tone also allows for effective highlighting of brighter content or call-to-action buttons. The color should not be overused to maintain user engagement and minimize eye fatigue.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #1E202B can be employed to create a sense of depth and luxury in a room. It's particularly effective for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms. When paired with lighter colors, such as off-white or light gray, it adds a contrasting element that enhances the overall aesthetic. Consider incorporating it into furniture pieces like sofas or cabinets to make a bold statement. The color works exceptionally well in well-lit rooms where it can be balanced with natural light.
Dark Mode UI
In user interface design, #1E202B offers a subtle yet sophisticated option for dark mode themes, providing a more aesthetically pleasing look than pure black. Employing this hue can reduce eye strain during prolonged screen usage, rendering it suitable for applications such as text editors, coding environments, or any software intended for extended use. By using lighter text colors like off-white or light gray on this background, developers can ensure sufficient contrast for easy readability and a more comfortable user experience.