Zeus
General Information about #221F20
The hex color #221F20, also known as Zeus, is a very dark, near-black shade with a subtle grayish tint. It belongs to the family of neutral colors, offering a sophisticated and understated appearance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 12.16% green, and 12.55% blue. The color is not part of the web-safe color palette. In the CMYK color model, commonly used for printing, Zeus is approximately 0% cyan, 9% magenta, 7% yellow, and 87% black. This color is often used in design contexts where a sense of depth, elegance, or mystery is desired. Its subtle nature makes it versatile for backgrounds, text, and other design elements, providing a solid foundation for other colors to shine. Zeus is considered a very dark shade of gray with hints of red and green.
The color #221F20, also known as Zeus, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 4 means that text or interactive elements using this color as a foreground must be carefully paired with a sufficiently light background to ensure adequate contrast. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet Level AA compliance. For Level AAA, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1 respectively. When using Zeus, it is crucial to verify contrast ratios using accessibility tools. Using a lighter color for text on a Zeus background or vice versa will help ensure readability and usability for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Also, providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or text labels, can further enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333031
A slightly lighter shade can provide better contrast while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #292627
This alternative offers a bit more warmth, which can be more inviting in some contexts.
- #1a181b
A darker color with a very subtle shift towards blue-purple that provides more distinctiveness without losing darkness.
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
In web design, Zeus can be used for website backgrounds, headers, or footers to create a sophisticated and modern look. It pairs well with lighter text colors like white or light gray to ensure readability. The understated nature of Zeus makes it suitable for professional websites, portfolios, or blogs that require a touch of elegance without being overly flashy. Moreover, it is used in user interface design for dark mode themes, sidebars, and other navigational elements, providing a comfortable viewing experience for users in low-light conditions. Additionally, this color works as a great background for highlighting other colors.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Zeus can be used as a dominant color in accent walls, furniture upholstery, or flooring to create a calming and grounding atmosphere. This dark, near-black hue complements natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents such as brass or copper. It can be paired with lighter colors like beige, cream, or gray to create a balanced and inviting space. Zeus is suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices where a sense of tranquility and sophistication is desired. Additionally, it is suitable for areas where light reflection is needed.
Fashion and Apparel
Zeus can be employed to add a touch of mystery and sophistication to clothing designs. Use it for garments where subtlety and elegance are key. The neutral dark palette works particularly well in evening wear, such as dresses or suits, where a refined and understated look is desired. It can also be used as a base color for accessories such as scarves, hats, or gloves, allowing other colors to pop and create visual interest. Its versatility makes it a staple in any wardrobe, providing a solid foundation for both casual and formal ensembles. Furthermore, Zeus works as an excellent backdrop, enhancing the vibrancy and details of embellishments.