Black Olive

General Information about Black Olive (#212714)

The hex color #212714, commonly known as Black Olive, is a very dark shade of green, almost appearing black to the untrained eye. It derives its name from the color of ripe black olives. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13% red, 15.3% green, and 7.8% blue. Its CMYK values are 15% cyan, 0% magenta, 49% yellow, and 85% black. This color is often associated with sophistication, earthiness, and a sense of natural elegance. Due to its dark nature, it can be challenging to work with in design, especially regarding accessibility and contrast. Careful consideration must be given to its pairing with other colors to ensure readability and visual appeal.

The hex color #212714, also known as Black Olive, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low luminance value results in poor contrast against standard white backgrounds, making text and other elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To ensure accessibility, it's imperative to pair #212714 with much lighter colors that provide a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Furthermore, avoid using this color for essential interactive elements like buttons or links unless accompanied by clear visual cues and textual labels. Providing alternative high-contrast themes and allowing users to customize colors can greatly enhance the accessibility of content using this dark hue.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Background

  In web design, #212714 can be used sparingly for decorative elements or as a background for hero sections if paired with bright, contrasting text to ensure readability. Its somber tone can evoke a sense of sophistication and natural elegance. However, it should not be used for body text or interactive elements without careful consideration of accessibility guidelines. When implemented correctly, it can contribute to a unique and memorable website design, especially in themes related to nature, organic products, or luxury goods.

• Interior Accent Color

  In interior design, Black Olive (#212714) can serve as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items. Its muted, earthy tone creates a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. When used in conjunction with lighter, warmer colors, it can add depth and contrast to a room. For example, pairing it with cream or beige walls can create a balanced and inviting space. Additionally, Black Olive can be incorporated into textiles, such as curtains or cushions, to introduce a subtle touch of elegance.

• Fashion Apparel

  In fashion, Black Olive can be used as a sophisticated and understated color choice for clothing and accessories. It works well for creating versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down. For example, a Black Olive blazer can be paired with light-colored pants for a professional look or with jeans for a more casual outfit. Accessories such as scarves or handbags in this color can add a touch of elegance to any ensemble, making it a refined choice for those seeking a subtle yet stylish statement.

Complementary color

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