Steel Gray
General Information about #221A33
The hex color #221A33, often referred to as Steel Gray, is a dark and muted shade that resides in the gray color family with subtle purple undertones. It has a somewhat desaturated appearance, making it a versatile choice for various design applications. In the RGB color model, #221A33 consists of 13.33% red, 10.2% green, and 20% blue. Its CMYK values are 47.92% cyan, 49.0% magenta, 0% yellow, and 80% black. This color is often associated with feelings of sophistication, neutrality, and modernity. Due to its dark nature, it is essential to consider contrast ratios when using it for text or interactive elements to ensure accessibility, making it most suited for background applications.
The hex color #221A33, often referred to as a dark, muted shade of gray with subtle purple undertones, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value necessitates careful consideration when used for text or interactive elements. Insufficient contrast against a white background, for instance, would render text illegible for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure inclusivity, it is imperative to pair this color with significantly lighter hues, adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey information; supplement color cues with text labels, icons, or other visual indicators to accommodate users who may not perceive color accurately.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332d44
A slightly lighter shade of gray that offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #332244
A desaturated purple that provides a subtle color variation with better visibility.
- #333333
This color provides a softer, more neutral gray tone that can be easier on the eyes and improve readability when used for text or backgrounds. Its higher lightness value also contributes to better accessibility for users with visual impairments.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #221A33 can be used to create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. It's suitable for backgrounds, headers, or accent elements when paired with contrasting colors like light grays or muted golds. For example, a website for a technology company could use this color as part of its branding to convey a sense of innovation and elegance. However, it's crucial to use it sparingly and ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements to maintain accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, #221A33 works well as an accent color or a base for a room with a modern or minimalist style. It can be used for walls, furniture, or decorative elements, complemented by brighter colors such as whites, creams, or even metallic accents to create visual interest and prevent the space from feeling too dark. This color exudes sophistication and can be incorporated in lounges, home offices, or bedrooms. The use of texture in these applications will add visual interest and softness to its inherent darkness.
Fashion
In fashion, #221A33 can serve as a versatile base color for creating elegant and sophisticated outfits. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories, paired with lighter or brighter colors to add contrast and visual appeal. For instance, a dark gray dress could be accessorized with silver jewelry and a vibrant scarf to create a balanced and stylish look. It can be especially powerful in minimalist and urban fashion styles.