Oil
General Information about #221B19
The hex color #221B19, often referred to as "Oil", is a dark, muted shade of brown. It resides within the realm of earthy tones, carrying with it a sense of understated elegance and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it consists of 16.47% red, 10.59% green, and 9.8% blue. Its low saturation gives it a subtle, almost grayscale appearance, making it a versatile choice for backgrounds or accent colors. Colors like this are often associated with feelings of calmness, reliability, and stability. In contrast to brighter hues, #221B19 exudes a more reserved and classic aesthetic, often finding its place in designs aiming for a timeless appeal. Its closest named color in conventional palettes would likely be categorized as a deep, desaturated brown or dark olive.
The color #221B19, a deep, muted shade, presents certain accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value means that it has a poor contrast ratio against common background colors like white. This can make text or user interface elements using this color difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with much lighter shades, aiming for a contrast ratio that meets WCAG guidelines (ideally 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Using tools to check color contrast is highly recommended during the design process. Also consider that color alone should not be used to convey important information.
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Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #221B19 can serve as a sophisticated background for sections intended to evoke a sense of depth or seriousness. It's particularly effective in creating a luxurious or high-end feel. However, its darkness requires careful consideration of text and element contrast. White or very light text would be necessary. It's suitable for portfolios, blogs, or e-commerce sites featuring premium products, where the goal is to project an image of quality and refinement. It should not be used for large blocks of texts.
Interior Design
In interior design, #221B19 could be utilized as a wall color in a home theater or study, providing a dark and immersive atmosphere. It is also a good choice for furniture finishes. The color should be balanced with lighter elements, such as light-colored rugs, artwork, or accent furniture, to prevent the space from feeling too small or somber. Consider using textured materials to add visual interest and depth to the room. This shade also works well as an accent color in larger spaces.
Fashion
In fashion, #221B19 can be used for clothing items such as leather jackets or elegant dresses for special occasions, creating a classy look. It can be combined with gold accessories to create a lavish look. Use it as a base color for other colorful pieces in your outfit.