Steel Gray
General Information about Steel Gray
The hexadecimal color #211C3B, also known as Steel Gray, is a dark, muted shade of gray with a subtle bluish undertone. It belongs to the family of cool colors and evokes a sense of sophistication, neutrality, and calmness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13% red, 11% green, and 23% blue. This composition gives it its characteristic gray hue with a slight inclination towards blue. The color is often associated with professionalism, stability, and a sense of formality. It is a versatile color that can be used in various design contexts, from web development to interior design, and can be paired with a wide range of other colors to achieve different aesthetic effects. Its subtle nature allows it to act as a neutral backdrop, allowing other colors to stand out, or it can be combined with similar shades for a monochromatic look.
The hex color #211C3B, a shade of Steel Gray, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against pure white (#FFFFFF) is approximately 9.6:1, which meets WCAG AA standards for normal text and WCAG AAA standards for large text. However, against pure black (#000000), the contrast ratio is only around 2.1:1, falling short of accessibility guidelines. Therefore, it's crucial to carefully consider the background color when using #211C3B for text or interactive elements. Using lighter shades of gray, beige, or even pastel colors as backgrounds can significantly improve readability and usability for users with visual impairments. Additionally, providing alternative text descriptions for images and icons using this color is essential to ensure content accessibility for screen reader users. Designers should prioritize sufficient contrast and clear visual cues to accommodate diverse user needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #211C3B can be effectively used for website backgrounds, especially when aiming for a sophisticated and professional look. It pairs well with lighter text colors like white or pale yellow, creating a visually appealing contrast. The color can also be used for UI elements such as buttons and navigation bars, providing a subtle yet elegant touch. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the text to maintain accessibility standards. Furthermore, in data visualization, this shade of gray can be employed for creating graphs and charts, providing a neutral backdrop that highlights the data points effectively.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, #211C3B can be incorporated into clothing designs to create a sense of understated elegance and versatility. This color works well for both formal and casual wear, lending a touch of sophistication to any outfit. It can be paired with brighter colors to create a striking contrast or with other neutral tones for a more muted and harmonious look. Furthermore, it is an excellent choice for accessories such as handbags, belts, and shoes, as it can easily complement a wide range of styles and color palettes.
Interior Design
In interior design, #211C3B is a great option for living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. It can be used on walls to create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. This color also works well for furniture upholstery, rugs, and decorative accessories. This color can be paired with other neutral colors like white, beige, and brown to create a cohesive and balanced space. You can add pops of color with artwork, pillows, or throws. #211C3B can also be used in kitchens on cabinets, countertops, or backsplashes.