Oil
General Information about #221D18
#221D18, also known as Oil, is a very dark shade of brown, almost black. It evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and richness. In color psychology, dark browns are often associated with stability, reliability, and earthiness. This color is not typically vibrant or attention-grabbing but is more subtle and grounding. In the RGB color model, #221D18 is composed of 13.33% red, 11.37% green, and 9.41% blue. This composition results in its muted and dark appearance. It is commonly used in design to provide a sense of elegance, maturity, and understated luxury. Due to its darkness, it requires careful consideration of contrast when used with text or other design elements.
The color #221D18, being a very dark shade, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily concerning contrast. When used as text, it requires a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links necessitates careful consideration of focus states and hover effects to ensure they are clearly distinguishable. Insufficient contrast can exclude users with low vision or color vision deficiencies. Designers should use contrast checker tools to validate their color choices and ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines. Also, consider providing alternative color themes to allow users to customize the display based on their individual needs.
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Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #221D18 can serve as a sophisticated background color for sections that need to convey luxury and exclusivity, such as headers or footers. When used sparingly and paired with contrasting typography, it creates an elegant visual hierarchy. It can also be effectively used for dark mode themes, providing a comfortable viewing experience in low-light conditions. Furthermore, the color's depth makes it suitable for subtle textures or patterns, adding visual interest without overwhelming the content.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, #221D18 can add a grounding element to a room. Use it on accent walls or furniture to create a cozy atmosphere. Pair it with warm metallics like gold or brass to enhance its richness. It's also well-suited for leather upholstery or wood finishes, adding depth and sophistication to the space. In fashion, #221D18 can be a stylish choice for outerwear or accessories, offering a versatile neutral that complements a wide range of colors and styles. Consider using this color for elements that do not need to stand out, but need to blend well.
Branding
In branding, #221D18 (Oil) may be employed by companies aiming to project an image of strength, reliability, and understated elegance. Industries such as finance, law, or high-end automotive could find this color appealing for logos, websites, and marketing materials. Its association with oil also lends itself to energy or industrial sectors. Use it to create a visual identity that exudes confidence, expertise, and enduring quality.