Ebony Clay
General Information about #221F3F
The hexadecimal color code #221F3F represents a dark, muted shade of purple, often referred to as Ebony Clay. It belongs to the family of dark purples and has a sophisticated, understated appearance. In the RGB color model, #221f3f consists of 13.33% red, 12.16% green, and 24.71% blue. This composition gives it a cool, slightly mysterious quality. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 46% cyan, 51% magenta, 0% yellow, and 75% black. This color is often associated with elegance, depth, and sophistication. Its dark tone makes it suitable for creating a sense of intimacy and calmness in design projects. It's commonly used in graphic design, web design, and interior decoration to add a touch of understated luxury.
The hex color #221f3f, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure readability. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Given its dark nature, #221f3f may not meet these requirements with moderately light text. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with colors like #FFFFFF (white) or #F0F0F0 (light gray). Avoid using it with mid-tone grays or darker shades as text color. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance and optimal readability for all users. Using lighter shades of analogous colors can also help ensure sufficient contrast while retaining a cohesive design scheme. Additionally, providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, can further enhance accessibility for users who may have difficulty distinguishing colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic but provides improved contrast when used as a background color with white text.
A color with a touch more warmth, offering a subtle variation while remaining in the dark, muted family, suitable for creating depth and layering in designs.
For increased accessibility, using a lighter shade like #444166 can significantly improve the contrast ratio, ensuring readability and compliance with web accessibility guidelines.
Applications
Website Design
In web design, #221f3f can be used for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It pairs well with minimalist layouts and can be contrasted with lighter accent colors to draw attention to key elements. Consider using it for backgrounds or navigation menus, complemented by lighter text and interactive elements in shades of white or light gray. The color evokes feelings of professionalism and stability, making it suitable for corporate or portfolio websites where a serious and refined image is desired.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay can be used to create a cozy and intimate space. It works well in bedrooms or home offices, providing a sense of calmness and focus. Pair it with soft textures and warm lighting to enhance its comforting qualities. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for furniture pieces, complemented by lighter shades of gray or beige for a balanced and harmonious look. Accessorize with metallic accents like gold or brass to add a touch of luxury and elegance.
Makeup and Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, particularly in makeup, #221f3f, being reminiscent of Ebony Clay, can be incorporated into eyeshadow palettes for creating smoky eye looks. It works effectively as a base shade or for adding depth to the outer corners of the eyes. Its ability to blend smoothly with other colors makes it versatile for creating both subtle and dramatic styles. When used in nail polish, the shade offers an edgy, sophisticated look. Due to its rich, dark undertone, it's also suited for eyeliner and eyebrow products, providing definition and a touch of mystery to any makeup style.