Steel Gray
General Information about Steel Gray
The hex color #222230, also known as Steel Gray, is a dark, muted shade of gray with subtle cool undertones. It is composed of 13.33% red, 13.33% green, and 19.22% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:34, G:34, and B:48. In the CMYK color space, its approximate composition is C:29, M:29, Y:0, K:81. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, neutrality, and sophistication. It's a versatile color commonly used in design for backgrounds, text, and other elements where a subtle and understated aesthetic is desired. Its low saturation makes it easy to pair with a wide range of other colors.
The hex color #222230 presents some accessibility challenges due to its low contrast, particularly against white backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. This color likely falls short of these recommendations, potentially making text difficult to read for users with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter color for the text or a darker color for the background. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if color combinations meet accessibility standards. Furthermore, providing alternative text descriptions for images and other non-text elements is crucial for users who rely on screen readers. Remember that accessibility is not only about meeting legal requirements but also about creating an inclusive experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Interior Design: Living Room
Steel Gray can create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere in a living room. Pair it with lighter accents like off-white or cream for a balanced look. It works well on walls or larger furniture pieces, providing a neutral backdrop for colorful artwork or decorative items. Consider adding metallic accents like silver or brass to enhance the steel-like quality of the color. Furthermore, adding textures through rugs and cushions can keep the space from feeling flat. Overall, Steel Gray is excellent for creating a space that feels calming yet stylish.
Web Design: Background Color
Steel Gray can be used in web design as a background color, primarily for headers, footers or sidebars, particularly when aiming for a professional or minimalist aesthetic. Its neutrality allows other colors in the design, such as vibrant action buttons or highlighted text, to stand out. It is suitable for layouts requiring a subdued and sophisticated background without being too distracting. Consider that this color should be tested against text colors to maintain sufficient contrast and readability in accordance with accessibility guidelines.
Fashion: Apparel Base Color
Steel Gray can be used in fashion for creating sophisticated and neutral outfits. It is ideal for pants, skirts, and jackets. This color can serve as a base for outfits that allow brighter, bolder accent colors in accessories like scarves, jewelry, or shoes to stand out. Steel Gray provides a polished look, especially when paired with structured silhouettes and quality fabrics. Combining this color with textures such as leather or wool can create a visually engaging ensemble that is both classic and modern.