Steel Gray
General Information about #1E2033
The hexadecimal color code #1E2033 represents a dark shade of gray-blue. It is composed of 11.8% red, 12.5% green, and 20% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 30 red, 32 green, and 51 blue. The corresponding CMYK color code is 0.41 magenta, 0.37 yellow and 0.80 black. Its hue angle is 232.5 degrees, its saturation is 25.5%, and its lightness is 15.7%. This color is often described as a cool, muted tone, lending a sense of sophistication and neutrality. Due to its dark nature, it is often used in combination with lighter colors to create contrast and visual interest. It is a popular choice for backgrounds and text in design projects, especially when a subtle, professional look is desired.
The hex color #1E2033, also known as Steel Gray, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its low luminance value makes it difficult to provide sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. When used as text, it is crucial to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against the background color to meet WCAG AA standards. If used for larger text elements (14pt bold or 18pt regular), a contrast ratio of 3:1 is acceptable. When used for non-text elements like icons or graphical components, a 3:1 contrast ratio is generally required. Careful consideration is needed to ensure readability and usability for users with visual impairments. Using tools to verify color contrast is highly recommended during the design and development process. Additionally, providing alternative styling options or themes can enhance the accessibility of the content for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter gray that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability for text.
A slightly brighter hue with a touch of blue, offering a more modern and visually appealing alternative while maintaining a subtle aesthetic.
Offers a warmer feel and is a great alternative if you want a softer look. It is also useful for creating depth and shadow.
Applications
Web Design
Steel Gray is often employed as a background color for websites or application interfaces, creating a sophisticated and modern look. Its muted tone makes it an excellent choice for content-heavy websites where readability is paramount. It can also be used for UI elements such as buttons, navigation bars, and card backgrounds, providing a clean and professional aesthetic. Furthermore, it serves as a neutral backdrop for showcasing other colors and design elements, ensuring that the overall visual hierarchy remains balanced and harmonious. This color is also often used to separate content blocks from each other and to create a structured feel.
Interior Design
In interior design, Steel Gray functions as a versatile neutral that complements a wide range of accent colors and materials. It can be used for walls, flooring, or furniture, providing a calming and elegant atmosphere to the space. When paired with brighter colors like teal or coral, it creates a vibrant contrast, while using it with natural materials like wood and stone adds warmth and texture. Steel Gray is also suitable for creating a minimalist or industrial aesthetic, depending on the surrounding elements. This makes it useful for living rooms, bedrooms, or studies alike.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Steel Gray offers a sophisticated and understated alternative to black or navy. It can be used for clothing, accessories, or footwear, creating a versatile and timeless look. Steel Gray pairs well with both neutral and vibrant colors, allowing for a wide range of styling options. A Steel Gray suit exudes professionalism, while a Steel Gray sweater offers a casual yet refined appearance. The color's neutrality also makes it suitable for layering with other colors and textures, allowing for endless creative combinations. It is the color of choice for many fashion designers.