Ebony Clay
General Information about #20323E
The hex color #20323E, also referred to as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade that evokes a sense of sophistication and stability. It belongs to the family of dark grey-blue colors and is frequently used in design to create a sense of depth and seriousness. In the RGB color model, #20323E consists of 12.55% red, 19.61% green, and 24.31% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.48, 0.18, 0.00, 0.76, meaning it's composed of 48% cyan, 18% magenta, 0% yellow, and 76% black. This color is often used in corporate branding, web design, and interior decorating to convey professionalism and reliability. Understanding the color's composition allows designers to effectively incorporate it into their projects, achieving a desired mood and visual impact.
The color #20323E, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its low contrast ratio against a white background necessitates careful consideration. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #20323E for text, it is crucial to pair it with a very light color to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. For backgrounds, this dark hue might work better, but foreground elements should be bright. Tools like contrast checkers can assist designers in evaluating the compliance of color combinations. Proper use of ARIA attributes and semantic HTML can further improve accessibility. Always test color choices with real users, including those with disabilities, to validate their effectiveness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #34495e
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #161e23
A darker shade for creating a deeper and more sophisticated look in designs.
- #2c3e50
A neutral grey alternative that works well as a background color, offering a subtle and elegant feel.
Applications
Website Background
In web design, #20323E can be utilized as a primary background color for websites aiming for a sophisticated or corporate aesthetic. It pairs well with lighter text colors like white or off-white to ensure readability. Buttons and interactive elements can use brighter accent colors to stand out against this dark background. This color is suitable for websites in the technology, finance, or consulting industries, providing a sense of professionalism and stability. Using it sparingly will enhance user experience and ensure visual harmony.
Interior Accent
In interior design, #20323E can serve as an accent wall color in a modern living room or office space. Its dark, muted tone creates a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be complemented with lighter furniture and decor items in shades of grey, beige, or white. Metallic accents like gold or silver can add a touch of elegance. This color also works well for cabinetry or built-in shelves, providing a sleek and contemporary look. The key is to balance the darkness with ample lighting and contrasting elements.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #20323E can be used as a base color for clothing items such as jackets, trousers, or skirts. Its versatility allows it to be paired with a variety of colors, from muted neutrals to bold brights. It works well in both casual and formal settings. For a casual look, it can be combined with denim or earthy tones. For a more formal look, it can be paired with silk or velvet in jewel tones. Accessorizing with metallic jewelry or colorful scarves can add visual interest and personality to an outfit featuring #20323E.