Ebony Clay
General Information about #223242
The hexadecimal color code #223242 represents a dark, muted shade of blue, often referred to as "Ebony Clay". It's composed of 13.33% red, 19.61% green, and 25.88% blue. In the RGB color space, it is a relatively subdued color, leaning towards the cooler end of the spectrum. This color evokes a sense of calm, sophistication, and stability. It is often associated with professionalism, trustworthiness, and understated elegance. Due to its dark nature, it can effectively be used as a background color when paired with lighter text or design elements to create a visually appealing contrast. It’s commonly found in corporate branding, modern web designs, and sophisticated interior spaces where a sense of depth and seriousness is desired.
The color #223242, a dark shade of grayish-blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify compliance. If the color is used for text, consider increasing the font size or weight to improve legibility. Also, avoid using this color for essential UI elements or links without clear visual cues, as it may be difficult for users with color blindness or low vision to distinguish them from the background. Providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, can enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #334353
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast for text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #283848
A warmer tone that can provide a more inviting feel while still being relatively dark.
- #333333
A neutral grey that can be used as a background or text color, maintaining a similar contrast level to #223242 with improved accessibility
Applications
Website Headers/Footers
This color is often used in website headers and footers to create a sophisticated and professional look. It pairs well with lighter accent colors and clean typography. It's suitable for businesses aiming for a modern and trustworthy image, such as technology companies or financial institutions. Using it judiciously can enhance the user experience by providing a clear visual hierarchy and guiding the user's eye to important information, especially when complemented with sufficient white space.
Accent Wall Color
In interior design, #223242 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and elegant atmosphere. It works well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. To prevent the space from feeling too dark, it is best to pair it with lighter furniture and accessories in contrasting colors. The color also creates a feeling of stability and trustworthiness.
Elegant Garments
In fashion, this color can be used for creating elegant and understated garments such as dresses, suits, or coats. It is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. It pairs well with a variety of colors, including jewel tones, pastels, and neutrals. It's a good choice for creating a timeless and sophisticated look, often associated with formality, professionalism, and refined taste. Because of its somewhat serious nature, the color is excellent for professional environments.