Steel Gray
General Information about Steel Gray
The hex color #211F32, often referred to as Steel Gray, is a dark and muted shade residing in the gray color family. It is composed of 12.9% red, 12.2% green, and 19.6% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of R:33, G:31, B:50. In the CMYK color model, its values are C:0.34, M:0.38, Y:0.0, K:0.8. The hue angle is 246 degrees, saturation is 16.9%, and lightness is 15.7%. This color evokes a sense of sophistication, stability, and understated elegance. It can be perceived as neutral and versatile, making it suitable for various design applications. Steel Gray is often associated with modern and industrial aesthetics, while also possessing a timeless quality that lends itself to classic designs. The hex color #211F32 is useful for creating a calm and serious environment.
The color #211F32, a deep shade of steel gray, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Due to its darkness, #211F32 will require very light foreground colors to achieve adequate contrast. Tools are available to check color contrast ratios, which is important to use to ensure the website is accessible to users with visual impairments. If sufficient contrast cannot be achieved with the current design, consider lightening the base color or choosing an entirely different color scheme to improve accessibility. Remember that accessibility is not just about compliance but also about providing an inclusive experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter gray that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, making it a safer choice for text and UI elements.
- #282828
A warmer, more neutral gray that can be used as a background color to create a sense of depth and sophistication.
- #121212
A very dark desaturated gray that is very close to black, and can be used as alternative to black to avoid the stark contrast. This color can be used as background in web design.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #211F32 can be used as a sophisticated background color for sections or elements to create depth and visual interest. It pairs well with lighter text colors such as whites or light grays, allowing content to pop. It can also be used for UI elements like buttons and navigation bars, especially when aiming for a modern, minimalist aesthetic. The color can be complemented with accent colors to make the design more alive. This color can be used to create a dark theme for websites or applications, reducing eye strain in low-light environments. The dark background can be used to highlight multimedia elements, such as images and videos, providing an immersive experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Steel Gray can serve as a wall color in rooms where a calming and subdued atmosphere is desired, such as bedrooms or home offices. It works well with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a balanced and harmonious space. The color can be incorporated into furniture pieces or decorative accents to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a room. It can also be paired with brighter colors to create a more vibrant and dynamic look, or with monochromatic grays to achieve a modern and minimalist style. Steel Gray also goes well with metallic accents, such as lamps and frames.
Fashion Accent Color
Steel Gray can be used in fashion to create understated yet stylish outfits. It serves as an excellent neutral base that complements a wide range of colors, allowing accessories and statement pieces to stand out. In menswear, it can be used for suits, jackets, and trousers, offering a more modern alternative to traditional black or navy. In womenswear, it can be incorporated into dresses, skirts, and blouses, lending a touch of sophistication to everyday looks. Steel Gray accessories, such as handbags and scarves, can also add a subtle yet chic accent to any outfit. Combine Steel Gray with lighter colors to make the outfit more modern.