Steel Gray
General Information about Steel Gray (#201A39)
The color #201A39, also known as Steel Gray, is a dark, muted shade residing in the blue-violet spectrum. It possesses a low saturation and luminance, lending it a sophisticated and understated quality. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 12.55% red, 10.2% green, and 22.35% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 44% cyan, 54% magenta, 0% yellow, and 78% black. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and modernity. Its versatility allows it to be employed in various design contexts, ranging from web design to interior decoration. Its hexadecimal code #201A39 makes it easily identifiable and reproducible across different platforms and applications. Steel Gray is valued for its neutrality, making it a suitable backdrop or accent color.
The hex color #201a39, a deep shade of steel gray, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its low luminance value necessitates careful consideration of color contrast ratios to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. When using #201a39 for text, pairing it with a light color like #FFFFFF (white) or a very pale yellow or beige can help meet these requirements. Conversely, using it as a background color requires light-colored text for optimal legibility. It is essential to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance with WCAG standards and ensure an inclusive user experience. Ignoring contrast can exclude users with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33334d
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #0a0a1a
A darker, almost black color that can be used for backgrounds or areas where high contrast is needed.
- #282345
A dark grayish blue color that introduces a touch of color while staying in a similar tone.
Applications
Web Design and UI
In web design, #201A39 can be used to create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. It's well-suited for backgrounds, headers, or accents, especially when paired with contrasting colors for readability. Its subtle and understated nature makes it appropriate for websites that aim to convey professionalism, elegance, or trustworthiness. In user interfaces (UI), it can be applied to elements such as navigation bars, sidebars, or footers, providing a consistent visual theme across the design. Combining it with lighter shades or complementary hues can enhance user engagement and overall visual appeal, creating an immersive and engaging user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #201A39 can be utilized to evoke a sense of tranquility and sophistication. It works well as a wall color in bedrooms, living rooms, or studies, creating a calming and inviting atmosphere. Complementing it with warm neutrals, metallics, or pops of color can enhance the overall ambiance of the space. Furthermore, it can be incorporated into furniture, textiles, or accessories to add depth and visual interest to the design. Its versatility allows it to blend seamlessly with various design styles, from minimalist to contemporary, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing interior.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, #201A39 is an excellent choice for creating elegant and timeless garments. It is often used for formal wear, such as suits, dresses, and coats, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall look. This color works well as a background hue and combines well with statement jewelry or accessories. Its dark, neutral shade is ideal for creating a versatile wardrobe that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Its ability to coordinate with a wide range of colors and textures makes it a popular choice among fashion designers and enthusiasts.