Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay
Ebony Clay, represented by the hexadecimal color code #21323C, is a dark, muted shade of gray-blue. It belongs to the family of cool, neutral colors, often associated with sophistication, professionalism, and stability. In the RGB color model, it consists of 13% red, 20% green, and 24% blue. Its CMYK values are approximately 46% cyan, 16% magenta, 0% yellow, and 76% black. This color finds applications across various design fields due to its versatility and understated elegance. From web design and branding to interior decoration and fashion, Ebony Clay provides a solid foundation upon which to build a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic. Its calming effect and neutral nature make it a perfect backdrop for highlighting other more vibrant colors.
The hex color #21323C, also known as Ebony Clay, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its relatively low lightness value means that it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios, especially for text. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for readability, particularly for users with visual impairments. When using #21323C as a background color, ensure that the foreground text color is sufficiently light to meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help in verifying compliance. Avoid pairing it with dark colors, as this will exacerbate accessibility issues. Also, provide alternative visual cues, such as icons or text formatting, to convey information for users who may have difficulty distinguishing subtle color differences. Proper use of ARIA attributes can further enhance accessibility for screen reader users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #334756
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #283a44
A desaturated blue can provide a subtle variation while remaining visually harmonious.
- #36454F
Charcoal gray is a versatile alternative that provides a touch of warmth and depth, offering a more inviting feel.
Applications
Website Design
Ebony Clay (#21323C) exudes sophistication, making it ideal for website backgrounds, headers, and footers. Its neutrality allows content to stand out, while the dark tone conveys authority. It can create a professional look, particularly for finance or consulting firms. The color also works well for interactive elements, such as buttons and form fields, especially when paired with lighter text or accent colors to ensure readability and usability. In web design, it is essential to balance aesthetics with accessibility, guaranteeing a user-friendly interface for all visitors.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay serves as a sophisticated wall color, especially for creating a feature wall in a living room or bedroom. It can create a calm and relaxing ambiance, complementing natural wood tones and metallic accents. The color pairs well with soft textures like velvet and linen, adding depth and visual interest to the space. Consider using it in spaces where a sense of tranquility is desired, such as home offices or reading nooks. When using dark colors, ensure adequate lighting to prevent the room from feeling too small or gloomy.
Fashion Design
Ebony Clay can be incorporated into fashion design for creating elegant and timeless pieces. The color works well for outerwear, such as coats and jackets, as well as for accessories like scarves and handbags. It's a versatile color that can be paired with a variety of other colors and patterns, making it a wardrobe staple. Consider using it for formal wear or business attire, where a touch of sophistication is desired. When incorporating dark colors into fashion, consider the overall silhouette and fabric choice to ensure the garment is flattering and comfortable.