Black Olive
General Information about Black Olive (#22280E)
The color #22280E, also known as Black Olive, is a dark shade of green-brown, reminiscent of olive leaves or dark earth. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 15.69% green, and 5.49% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 15.49% cyan, 0% magenta, 65.03% yellow and 84.31% black. This color evokes feelings of nature, earthiness, and sophistication. It is often associated with stability, reliability, and a sense of groundedness. Black Olive can be used effectively in various design applications to create a calming and sophisticated aesthetic, especially when paired with complementary colors or lighter neutral tones. Due to its dark nature, it's vital to ensure good contrast for accessibility when used with text or interactive elements.
The color #22280E, also known as Black Olive, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low luminance value of 0.017 makes it difficult to provide sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Black Olive will likely fail these criteria against most standard white or light-colored backgrounds. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with much lighter shades or using it sparingly for decorative elements rather than essential text or interactive components. Providing sufficient contrast ensures that users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, can easily perceive and interact with the content. Utilizing contrast checking tools is highly recommended to validate the color pairings.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Black Olive can be effectively used in website footers and headers to create a sophisticated and grounded feel. When used sparingly as a background color for specific sections, it can add depth without overwhelming the user. Consider using it for call-to-action buttons paired with light text to draw attention. In UI design, it can be incorporated in sidebars or navigation menus, providing a subtle contrast against the main content area. It's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements for accessibility.
Interior & Fashion Design
In interior design, Black Olive can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to bring a natural, earthy tone to a room. It pairs well with lighter neutral colors like beige, cream, and gray. Consider using it for painting accent walls, cabinets, or upholstered furniture. In fashion, it can be used for clothing items like jackets, pants, or accessories, adding a touch of understated elegance. The color is suitable for creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere, promoting a sense of well-being and connection to nature.
Branding
Black Olive, being a muted and somewhat subdued color, offers a unique opportunity in branding. It can convey sophistication, stability, and a connection to nature. In logo design, it might be used as a secondary color to add depth and grounding to brighter primary colors. For print materials like business cards and brochures, it can create a professional and understated impression. Furthermore, it works well in environmental graphics and signage, especially for brands focused on sustainability or natural products. Pairing it with lighter tones can provide a modern and appealing contrast.