Ebony Clay
General Information
The hex color #212A3E, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade of blue-gray. It belongs to the family of cool colors and evokes feelings of sophistication, stability, and calmness. In color psychology, dark blues and grays are often associated with professionalism, trust, and intelligence. Ebony Clay is frequently used in designs that aim to convey a sense of seriousness and reliability. It is a popular choice for backgrounds and accents in web design, branding, and interior design due to its versatile and understated nature. The color’s neutrality allows it to pair well with a variety of other colors, from bright and vibrant hues to more muted and subdued tones, making it a flexible option for different design aesthetics.
The hex color #212A3E, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its dark nature means that careful consideration must be given to the foreground color to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, when using #212A3E as a background, a light text color should be chosen. Colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays would be suitable options. It is important to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify that the contrast ratio meets the recommended standards, ensuring readability for users with visual impairments. Also, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; supplement with text or other visual cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #343a40
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast when paired with darker text. This offers improved readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2c3e50
A color with a hint of blue that can be used to create a calming and professional atmosphere.
- #343a40
A dark grey color that works well in modern, minimalist designs and provides a neutral background.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #212A3E can be used for website headers, footers, or sidebars to create a sophisticated and modern look. It pairs well with lighter accent colors for buttons and calls to action. The color also can be used for data visualizations, particularly for backgrounds that need to be subtle and not distracting. It provides a professional and serious tone to the overall look and feel of the website, making it a great choice for businesses in the tech or finance sectors.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay can be used as a wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It is best paired with lighter furniture and accessories to prevent the room from feeling too dark. This color also can be used in home offices to reduce eye strain and promote focus. It provides a neutral backdrop that helps keep the space clutter-free and professional, especially when combined with minimalist decor.
Fashion
In fashion, this color can be utilized to design sleek and modern clothing items. It works well for formal wear, outerwear, or accessories such as bags and shoes. The dark color can be paired with brighter or metallic accents for a touch of elegance. Also, it is suitable for creating a sophisticated, understated look, especially when combined with simple silhouettes and high-quality fabrics. It is a great choice for professional and stylish outfits.