Black Olive
General Information about Black Olive
The color #222914, often referred to as Black Olive, is a dark, muted shade of green. It belongs to the family of olive greens and has a subtle, earthy quality. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 16.08% green, and 7.84% blue. Its hexadecimal representation provides a concise way to define and use this color in digital applications, such as web design and graphic design. The color evokes a sense of nature, earthiness, and sophistication. It's frequently used to create a calming and grounding atmosphere. In color psychology, it is often associated with stability, growth, and harmony. However, due to its low luminance, careful consideration is required to ensure sufficient contrast with other colors, especially when used for text or interactive elements.
The hex color #222914, also known as Black Olive, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 2.65 makes it difficult to distinguish from a black background. Consequently, it fails to meet the contrast ratio requirements set by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for both normal text and large text. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to avoid using #222914 for text or interactive elements against dark backgrounds. If this color is essential to the design, consider using it sparingly for non-critical visual elements or pairing it with high contrast colors such as whites, yellows, or very light greens to provide sufficient contrast. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance with WCAG guidelines and provide an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333a25
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a dark olive tone but offers improved contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #444b36
A muted green that can be used in place of Black Olive to provide better visibility and contrast.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides a neutral alternative with improved contrast.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #222914 can be used sparingly for background accents or subtle visual elements. It's best suited for creating a sophisticated, earthy aesthetic, but should be paired with lighter, contrasting colors for text and interactive elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for non-essential graphical elements where contrast requirements are less critical. Always prioritize user experience by ensuring sufficient contrast ratios in text and interactive elements, adhering to accessibility guidelines for a user-friendly design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Olive (#222914) can be employed to create a grounding and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery to add depth and richness to a room. Pair it with natural materials like wood and stone to enhance its earthy qualities. Introduce lighter, contrasting colors in accessories and decor to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Consider using it in studies, libraries, or home offices to evoke a sense of calm and concentration.
Fashion Base Color
In fashion, #222914 can serve as a versatile base color for creating understated and elegant looks. It can be used in garments such as trousers, skirts, or jackets, and paired with lighter colors to create contrast and visual interest. The color works well in natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool, adding a touch of sophistication to everyday outfits. It is suitable for creating both casual and formal outfits. Accessorize with metallic or earthy tones to complement the richness of the color.