Ebony Clay
General Information about #1E2040
The hexadecimal color #1E2040, commonly known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade of blue-purple. It belongs to the cool color family and evokes feelings of sophistication, mystery, and elegance. Its dark nature makes it suitable for creating a sense of depth and contrast in design projects. In the RGB color model, it consists of 11.76% red, 12.55% green, and 25.1% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 53% cyan, 50% magenta, 0% yellow, and 75% black. Colors similar to Ebony Clay include other dark shades of blue, purple, and gray. The color can also be referred to as a deep indigo or a dark slate blue. This hue is often associated with night, shadows, and the unknown, making it a popular choice for creating dramatic and evocative designs.
The hex color #1E2040, also known as Ebony Clay, presents certain accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means it requires careful consideration when used as a background or text color. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast between foreground and background colors is crucial for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. When using #1E2040 as a background, ensure that the foreground text color is sufficiently light to meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. A color contrast checker tool is recommended to verify compliance. Also, avoid using this color for important UI elements where subtle differences need to be perceived, as its dark nature can obscure details. Providing alternative styling options for users, such as a high-contrast mode, can further improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic but improves contrast.
A neutral gray that works well as a background color and offers better readability.
A dark blue alternative that provides a similar feel, while potentially offering more contrast depending on the foreground color.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ebony Clay can be utilized to create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic, especially for websites related to technology, finance, or luxury goods. It can serve as a background color for headers or footers, providing a sense of depth and elegance. However, careful attention must be paid to text contrast to ensure readability. It's best suited for websites aiming for a sleek, professional look with a darker color palette.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay can be used to create a moody and intimate atmosphere in living rooms or bedrooms. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, as well as natural materials like wood and leather. It's often used as an accent wall color to add depth and drama to a space. Consider balancing it with lighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. The use of strategic lighting can enhance its appeal and prevent a dull look.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Ebony Clay is a versatile color choice for creating sophisticated and understated garments. It's often used for evening wear, outerwear, or accessories. The color lends itself well to luxurious fabrics such as velvet or silk, enhancing its richness and depth. It can be paired with brighter colors for a pop of contrast or with other neutral tones for a monochromatic look. The hue works well for both menswear and womenswear, conveying a sense of elegance and refinement.