Sepia Black
General Information about Sepia Black
The hex color code #210004, also known as Sepia Black, is a very dark shade of red. It resides in the red color spectrum but possesses a muted, almost brownish quality, reminiscent of aged photographs or antique documents, which is why it's referred to as "Sepia." In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it's composed of 13% red, 0% green, and 2% blue. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 100% magenta, 69% yellow, and 87% black. Due to its high black component, it reflects very little light, resulting in a low luminance value. This color is more commonly used for backgrounds than foregrounds.
The color #210004, also known as Sepia Black, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. With its very dark hue, it requires extremely light text or foreground elements to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. Using white text on a background of #210004 would improve contrast, but careful consideration is necessary. Ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to comply with AA standards. Insufficient contrast can exclude users with low vision or color blindness. Additionally, avoid using #210004 as the sole indicator for interactive elements; supplement it with labels or other visual cues to aid users with cognitive disabilities. Thoroughly testing with accessibility tools is crucial to guarantee usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2b0005
A slightly lighter shade of black offers better contrast while retaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #350000
A dark brown provides a warmer alternative, potentially improving readability and visual appeal depending on the context.
- #400001
As it is a dark shade of red, a lighter shade of red would be a suitable alterative
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Sepia Black can be used sparingly for background accents or dividers to create a sophisticated and subtle visual hierarchy. Its deep, muted tone evokes a sense of vintage elegance or understated luxury, making it suitable for websites targeting high-end products or services. However, due to its low contrast, it's crucial to avoid using it for primary text or interactive elements without careful consideration of accessibility guidelines. Instead, pair it with lighter complementary colors for optimal readability and user experience.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Sepia Black can serve as a sophisticated base color for garments or accessories, providing a subtle alternative to traditional black. Its rich, muted undertones add depth and dimension, making it suitable for creating elegant and timeless pieces. It can be paired with contrasting colors or metallic accents to enhance its visual appeal and create a statement look. It can also be used for creating dark backgrounds to enhance text in fashion magazines.
Interior Design
In interior design, Sepia Black can be incorporated into various elements, such as wall paint, furniture upholstery, or decorative accents, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Its warm undertones add depth and character to a room, making it suitable for creating a sense of intimacy and comfort. It can be paired with natural materials, such as wood and leather, to enhance its earthy appeal and create a harmonious living space. Use it for small decoration items such as candles or photo frames.