Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay
The hex color code #1F333B, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade that evokes feelings of sophistication and understated elegance. It belongs to the family of dark grayish-blue colors, and it's composed of 12.2% red, 20% green, and 23.1% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of R:31, G:51, B:59. The corresponding CMYK color values are C:47, M:13, Y:0, K:77. This color is often used in design to convey a sense of maturity, stability, and reliability. Its low saturation makes it a versatile choice that can be easily paired with a wide range of other colors, from neutrals to vibrant hues. The color is mostly used for backgrounds, text color, or design elements.
The hex color #1F333B, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text and user interface design. Due to its dark nature, it requires careful consideration of color contrast ratios to ensure readability for users, including those with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Using #1F333B as a background color necessitates light-colored text to meet these standards. Similarly, if used as text color, it should be paired with a very light background. It's crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance and ensure an inclusive user experience. Failure to meet these contrast requirements can exclude users who rely on sufficient contrast to perceive content effectively. Furthermore, avoid using color alone to convey important information; always include text labels or other cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #334756
A slightly lighter shade, #334756, offers improved contrast when paired with lighter text, enhancing readability for a broader range of users.
- #2c3e50
#2c3e50 provides a similar aesthetic while potentially offering better contrast ratios depending on the context and surrounding colors.
- #34495e
For UI elements, #34495E can be a useful alternative. It’s slightly less saturated, giving a softer, more modern appearance. It works well with light backgrounds and subtle shadows.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Ebony Clay (#1F333B) can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers. Its deep, muted tone adds a touch of elegance and professionalism, especially when contrasted with clean, white text and minimalist design elements. It can also be used for sidebars or navigation menus, providing a distinct visual separation from the main content area. For interactive elements, consider using it for hover or active states to create subtle yet noticeable feedback for users. However, always ensure that the text and interactive elements layered on top meet the required contrast ratios for accessibility. In addition, this color can be used for icons, providing a modern appearance.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ebony Clay can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather, as well as metallic accents in gold or copper. Consider using it in smaller spaces like home offices or reading nooks to add depth and sophistication. Complementary colors like mustard yellow or burnt orange can be used in accessories like throw pillows or artwork to create visual interest. When using a dark color like ebony clay, ensure there is adequate lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. Furthermore, lighter colored furniture can be used to balance the dark wall color.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Ebony Clay can be used for creating timeless and versatile garments. A coat or jacket in this color can serve as a wardrobe staple, easily paired with various outfits. It also works well for accessories like handbags or shoes, adding a touch of sophistication to any look. Consider using it in knitwear or textured fabrics to enhance its depth and richness. For a formal occasion, a dress in Ebony Clay can be accessorized with statement jewelry in silver or gold. In menswear, it can be used for suits or blazers, providing a modern alternative to traditional black or navy. This color also can be used for sporty clothing, such as leggings or sport jackets.