Steel Gray
General Information
The hex color #202435, also referred to as Steel Gray, is a dark, muted shade of gray with subtle bluish undertones. It belongs to the family of achromatic colors, meaning it has low saturation and is close to being a pure gray. In the RGB color model, #202435 is composed of 12.55% red, 14.12% green, and 20.78% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is commonly used for printing, it is composed of 40% cyan, 32% magenta, 0% yellow, and 79% black. This color is often associated with sophistication, neutrality, and a sense of calm. It is a versatile color that can be used in a variety of design applications, from web development to interior design.
The hex color #202435, also known as Steel Gray, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a text color. Its low luminance value of approximately 4.1 cd/m² results in a low contrast ratio against a standard white background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Therefore, using #202435 as a text color on a white background would not meet these guidelines. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair #202435 with a very light color for text or a very dark color for the background to achieve sufficient contrast. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be used to evaluate the contrast ratio and ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Furthermore, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, for interactive elements using this color to aid users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Steel Gray can be used to create a sophisticated and modern look for website backgrounds or UI elements. It pairs well with brighter accent colors to draw attention to key areas. For example, it can be used as a background color for a website's header or footer, creating a subtle contrast with the main content area. It is often used in combination with white or light gray text to maintain readability. In dashboard design, it can be used to differentiate panels and sections without being too visually distracting. Its muted tone makes it a versatile choice for creating a professional and user-friendly interface.
Interior Design
In interior design, Steel Gray is often used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used as a wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, providing a neutral backdrop for furniture and decor. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. This color can also be used for upholstery, rugs, and other textiles, adding a touch of elegance to the space. Because of it's neutral tone, it allows incorporating colorful accents within the space without feeling overwhelming.
Fashion
In fashion, Steel Gray can be used to create a versatile and timeless wardrobe. It can be used for clothing items like coats, sweaters, and pants, providing a neutral base that can be easily accessorized with different colors and styles. This color is often used in menswear, creating a professional and sophisticated look. It also works well in women's wear, especially for structured pieces like blazers and skirts. The color allows the accessories to become the focal point while still maintaining a classic look.