Oil
General Information about #221A20
The hex color #221A20, often referred to as "Oil," is a very dark, muted shade that resides in the realm of near-black colors. In the RGB color model, it consists of 13.33% red, 10.2% green, and 12.55% blue. This combination results in a color that is perceived as deep and sophisticated. Its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice for applications where a subtle, grounding tone is desired. The color evokes feelings of stability and maturity. The color is not found in the list of web-safe colors, therefore the use in web development should be carefully considered. The understated nature is often used in marketing for more sophisticated customers.
The hex color #221A20, also known as Oil, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning text readability. Due to its dark nature, it necessitates light-colored text for sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #221A20 as a background, ensure the foreground text meets these contrast requirements. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in verifying compliance. Also, consider users with visual impairments who may struggle with low contrast. Providing alternative color schemes with higher contrast can improve accessibility for a broader audience. Thoughtful color choices enhance the usability of digital content, making it more inclusive and accessible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332b30
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #333333
A neutral gray that can serve as a versatile background color, offering improved contrast compared to #221A20.
- #2b2127
A dark, muted brown that maintains a similar dark aesthetic while providing a subtle difference.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #221A20 can be employed as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and grounded feel. Its dark tone pairs well with lighter text and accent colors, allowing important information to stand out. It can be effective in creating a professional look for financial or business-related websites. Also the color can be used as a background of code snippets, making the code blocks more readable, giving the impression of an integrated development environment. The key is to ensure readability by choosing appropriate text colors and spacing.
Interior Design
In interior design, #221A20 can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative elements to add depth and richness to a room. This color is often associated with luxury and sophistication. For instance, it could be used on a feature wall in a living room or as the color of velvet cushions on a sofa. Combining it with metallic accents like gold or copper can enhance its opulent feel, making it suitable for creating a stylish and inviting space. The color is suitable for both modern and classic design.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #221A20 can be utilized for creating elegant and understated clothing designs, especially for evening wear or formal attire. It can be used as a base color for dresses, suits, or outerwear, providing a versatile backdrop for accessories and embellishments. The color works well with both matte and shiny textures, and is often seen on runways, as the color is well suited for this usecase. The color is suitable for creating timeless and sophisticated looks. Pairing it with brighter colors is common.