Oil
General Information about #222216
The hexadecimal color #222216, sometimes referred to as "Oil," is a dark, muted shade of brown with subtle yellow undertones. It is composed of 13.33% red, 13.33% green, and 8.63% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a relatively low intensity of each primary color. This results in a color that is perceived as earthy, subdued, and somewhat desaturated. In the context of color theory, #222216 can evoke feelings of stability, reliability, and naturalness. It is often associated with elements like soil, wood, and aged materials. Its muted nature allows it to blend seamlessly into various design schemes, making it a versatile choice for backgrounds, accents, or textural elements.
The color #222216, often referred to as "Oil," presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its dark nature results in very low contrast against common background colors like white, making text and other elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to accessibility guidelines such as WCAG, sufficient contrast ratios are essential for ensuring content is perceivable. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair #222216 with much lighter colors for text or interactive elements. Using color contrast checkers can help determine if the contrast ratio meets the minimum requirements (4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Moreover, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided; instead, use additional cues like text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies. Thoughtful consideration of color choices is paramount in creating an inclusive and accessible web experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Subtle UI Accents
In web design, #222216 can be used sparingly for elements like subtle borders, dividers, or background accents to add depth without overwhelming the user interface. It's particularly effective when aiming for a vintage or industrial aesthetic. For example, it could be used as a background color for a website section featuring a textured paper or metal effect. It should be paired with lighter, contrasting colors for text and interactive elements to ensure readability and usability. Employing this color effectively relies on a balanced approach to maintain visual appeal without sacrificing accessibility. It could also be used as the main color for a dark-themed website, with lighter shades of gray and beige used for text and highlights.
Earthy Fashion
In fashion, #222216 evokes a sense of understated elegance and ruggedness, making it suitable for clothing items like jackets, trousers, and accessories. It pairs well with other earthy tones and natural materials, such as leather and denim, to create a cohesive and versatile look. This color can be used as a base for creating outfits that are both stylish and practical, suitable for outdoor activities or casual everyday wear. Consider it as a sophisticated alternative to black, offering a softer, more nuanced aesthetic. #222216 can be paired with lighter browns, greens, and creams to create depth and interest.
Rustic Interior Design
In interior design, #222216 can serve as a grounding color for walls, furniture, or accents, creating a sense of warmth and sophistication. It works well in spaces that aim for a natural or rustic aesthetic, particularly when combined with wood, stone, and other organic materials. This color can be used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies. Pair it with lighter, brighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or heavy. Consider using it on accent walls or as a base color for upholstery to add depth and character to the room. Combining it with metallic accents like gold or copper can create a luxurious and elegant feel.