Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay (#1F2638)
The hexadecimal color code #1F2638 represents a dark, muted shade of blue. Commonly referred to as 'Ebony Clay', it evokes a sense of sophistication and understated elegance. This color is created by combining a relatively low amount of red (12.2%), green (15%), and blue (21.9%). Its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice for various design applications, where it can serve as a neutral backdrop or a subtle accent color. In the RGB color model, #1F2638 consists of 31 red, 38 green, and 56 blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 44.64 cyan, 32.14 magenta, 0 yellow and 78.82 black. Its dark nature provides a high level of color depth, which is suited for darker color palettes.
The color #1F2638, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its low luminance value of approximately 5% means it offers very little contrast against common background colors like white. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability, particularly for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's important to pair Ebony Clay with a very light color for text or interface elements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using online contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Also, consider providing alternative color schemes to allow users to customize the interface to their needs. When using #1F2638 for decorative elements, the contrast requirements are less strict, but it's still wise to be mindful of users with low vision.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade, #333333 provides a bit more visibility while maintaining a dark and sophisticated aesthetic. It offers improved contrast against light backgrounds compared to #1F2638.
#293347, similar to Ebony Clay but with a hint of blue, offering a cooler tone that can be more visually appealing in certain contexts and can slightly improve the constrast.
A warmer alternative, #262220 provides a similar dark aesthetic but with a warmer tone. Useful if the color needs to be more on the brown side.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ebony Clay can be employed to create sophisticated and modern website layouts. It works exceptionally well for backgrounds, headers, or navigation menus, particularly when paired with contrasting typography. Its dark tone conveys a sense of luxury and professionalism, making it suitable for websites targeting high-end clients or showcasing premium products. For example, a website for a luxury watch brand might use Ebony Clay as its primary background color to highlight the product's elegance and craftsmanship. However, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements to meet accessibility standards. Using it for a button background with a light text is recommended.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay can be used to create a sense of depth and drama in a room. It works well as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. Its dark hue adds sophistication to living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. Consider pairing it with lighter colors to balance the space and prevent it from feeling too dark. For example, Ebony Clay accent walls could be complemented by light-colored furniture and accessories to create a visually appealing contrast and add interest to the space. The color works also great for carpets.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Ebony Clay serves as a versatile color for creating elegant and understated garments. It's a popular choice for formal wear, such as suits, dresses, and outerwear. Its dark hue exudes sophistication and can be easily paired with other colors and accessories. For example, an Ebony Clay suit can be accessorized with a brightly colored tie or scarf to add a pop of color. The color is great for blending in in darker environments and helps the main subject to stand out.