Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay
The hex color #202E37, commonly referred to as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade that resides in the realm of cool neutrals. It is composed of 12.5% red, 18% green, and 22.7% blue. In the RGB color space, its values are R:32, G:46, B:55. This color often evokes feelings of sophistication, stability, and understated elegance. Its dark nature makes it suitable for use as a background color or an accent color to add depth and contrast to designs. In color psychology, darker shades are often associated with seriousness and professionalism, making Ebony Clay a good choice for corporate branding or websites aimed at a mature audience. The color's subtlety means that it can blend well with a variety of other colors, adding to its versatility in design applications.
The hex color #202E37, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it is crucial to select foreground text colors that offer sufficient contrast to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Light shades of gray, white, or even muted yellows could potentially work well as foreground text colors. Tools like contrast checkers can accurately measure contrast ratios. It's also vital to consider the context in which the color is used; for interactive elements, sufficient contrast is critical for users to perceive affordance. Testing with real users, especially those with visual impairments, is advisable to validate accessibility. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey information; use supplementary cues such as text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #343f4b
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast when paired with dark text.
- #4a5568
A desaturated gray that provides a neutral background, enhancing readability of foreground content.
- #36454f
A dark blue-gray that offers a subtle alternative while still feeling sophisticated.
Applications
Website Background
Ebony Clay, with its deep and muted tone, serves as a sophisticated background color for websites aiming for a professional or elegant look. It works especially well in portfolios, corporate sites, and blogs focusing on technology or design. To ensure readability, pair it with lighter text colors such as white or light gray. The dark backdrop can also highlight interactive elements with brighter accent colors, creating a visually engaging user experience. This color creates a calming and focused digital environment, avoiding distractions and creating a sleek feel.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ebony Clay can be used as a grounding color in living rooms or bedrooms. It provides a sense of stability and sophistication when used on walls, large furniture pieces, or accent rugs. Combining it with lighter, warmer colors such as beige, cream, or gold can create a balanced and inviting space. To avoid the room feeling too dark, incorporate plenty of natural light or strategically placed lighting fixtures. Metallic accents in brass or copper can also complement the color, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to the design. The result is a serene and stylish room with a distinct character.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Ebony Clay can be used as a neutral base for creating versatile and stylish outfits. It can serve as the main color for jackets, pants, or skirts, and paired with various brighter or pastel shades to create interesting contrasts. Accessorizing with jewelry, scarves, or shoes in complementary colors like mustard yellow, deep reds, or teal can elevate the look. The color can work well in both casual and formal settings, depending on the fabric and cut of the clothing. This dark neutral tone can be used as the perfect alternative to black.