Steel Gray
General Information about #202038
#202038 is a hexadecimal color code representing a dark shade of gray, often referred to as 'Steel Gray'. It is composed of 12.5% red, 12.5% green, and 21.9% blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 32 red, 32 green, and 56 blue. This color resides within the cooler spectrum of grays, leaning towards a bluish undertone. Due to its low saturation and luminance, it's often used for backgrounds, text, and other design elements where subtlety and sophistication are desired. Its darkness makes it suitable for creating contrast with lighter colors, enhancing readability and visual hierarchy. The hexadecimal system is a base-16 numeral system, commonly used in web design and graphic design to represent colors in a concise and standardized manner.
The hex color #202038, a dark steel gray, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily regarding contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. This color's darkness means careful consideration must be given to its paired foreground elements. Tools like contrast checkers can help web developers verify compliance. It is important to avoid using this color for essential information without sufficient contrast, as it can exclude users with visual impairments. Also, consider providing alternative color schemes for users who may have difficulty perceiving the intended contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33334d
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast against both light and dark text.
- #404040
A more neutral gray that works well as a background color and complements a wider range of colors.
- #282840
A warmer grey color that is less harsh. It provides better readability with white text.
Applications
Website Design
This color is perfect for creating a sophisticated and modern website design, especially for tech companies or portfolios. It evokes a sense of professionalism and reliability. Use it for website backgrounds, headers, or as an accent color to highlight key elements. Be sure to pair it with a bright, contrasting color for call-to-action buttons to ensure they stand out. This can be an excellent choice for dark mode themes, providing a comfortable viewing experience in low-light environments. The dark steel gray works well with minimalist designs, emphasizing content and visual hierarchy.
Interior Design
In interior design, #202038 can be used to create a sleek, modern ambiance. It works exceptionally well in home theaters or media rooms, minimizing glare and enhancing the viewing experience. This color can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces to add a touch of sophistication. Consider pairing it with metallic accents like silver or brushed steel to enhance the industrial feel. To prevent the space from feeling too dark, incorporate light-colored elements such as white or light gray carpets and artwork. It also complements natural wood tones, creating a balanced and inviting space.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, a dark steel grey like #202038 can be used for elegant and understated garments, such as evening wear or tailored suits. The color can also be used as an accent color in handbags, shoes, or other accessories. It pairs well with both warm and cool colors. It allows for a versatile base color that can be dressed up or down. The color is suitable for corporate fashion, offering a neutral yet stylish alternative to black or navy.