Oil
General Information about #231A19
The hex color #231A19, often referred to as 'Oil', is a dark, muted shade of brown. It is composed of 13.73% red, 10.2% green, and 9.8% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (35, 26, 25). This color is commonly associated with feelings of warmth, stability, and sophistication. Its dark nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds and accents in various design applications, particularly where a sense of understated elegance is desired. The color's muted tones allow it to blend seamlessly with a wide range of other colors, making it a practical choice for designers looking to create balanced and harmonious compositions. Due to its low saturation and dark value, careful consideration should be given to contrast ratios when using this color for text or interactive elements to ensure accessibility.
The hex color #231a19, also known as Oil, presents accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #231a19 as a background color may necessitate careful selection of foreground colors to meet these standards. In cases where visual impairments are a concern, providing alternative color schemes or allowing users to adjust the color settings can improve the overall user experience. Additionally, avoid using this color for crucial informational elements without adequate contrast, as it can render the information inaccessible to many users. Proper testing with accessibility tools is essential to validate the contrast and ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332a29
A slightly lighter shade that provides a bit more visibility while maintaining a similar dark, muted tone.
- #444444
A neutral gray that can be used as a safer alternative for backgrounds, providing better contrast with text.
- #301e1a
A dark brown that offers a warmer feel and slightly improved contrast compared to #231a19.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #231A19 can be used for creating a sophisticated and subdued look, particularly in headers or footers where a dark, grounding color is desired. It pairs well with lighter text colors like off-white or light gray to ensure readability. This color is suitable for websites that aim for an elegant or serious tone, such as those in the finance or luxury industries. However, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with other elements to maintain accessibility standards. It can be integrated into a broader color scheme that includes accent colors to provide visual interest without sacrificing the overall sense of refinement.
Interior Design
In interior design, #231A19 can serve as a grounding color for walls or furniture, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It works particularly well in spaces where a sense of warmth and enclosure is desired, such as libraries or home theaters. When using this color in a room, it's important to balance it with lighter elements to prevent the space from feeling too dark or oppressive. Accents of brighter colors, like gold or deep reds, can add visual interest and prevent the overall scheme from becoming monotonous. The color is also suitable for accent pieces like throw pillows or rugs, providing a subtle touch of elegance without overwhelming the space.
Fashion
In fashion, #231A19 can be used as a core color for creating elegant and understated outfits. It's a versatile choice for creating clothing that is both sophisticated and practical, suitable for various occasions ranging from professional settings to casual outings. This color works particularly well for items like jackets, trousers, and skirts, where a sense of grounding and versatility is desired. When incorporating #231A19 into a wardrobe, it's important to pair it with complementary colors to create visual interest and prevent the outfit from appearing too drab. Accessories in brighter shades or metallic tones can add a touch of personality and elevate the overall look.