Oil
General Information About #231B1C
The hexadecimal color code #231B1C represents a very dark shade of brown, often described as 'Oil'. It is composed of 13.73% red, 10.59% green, and 11% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 35 red, 27 green, and 28 blue. The CMYK values are 0% cyan, 24% magenta, 20% yellow, and 86% black. This color's primary characteristic is its low luminance, making it appear almost black to the human eye. It belongs to the family of dark browns and is often associated with earth tones, adding an element of nature and grounding to designs. Due to its muted nature, it provides a feeling of stability and sophistication.
The color #231B1C, a deep, muted shade of brown, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means that it offers very little contrast against both white and black backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Text rendered in #231B1C requires careful consideration of font size and weight to ensure readability. Using larger font sizes or bolder text can help improve contrast, but it's generally recommended to avoid this color for primary text elements. Furthermore, interactive elements like buttons or links should not rely solely on color to convey their interactive state, as this color might not be perceivable for all users. Providing additional cues, such as underlines or icons, is essential to ensure inclusivity. In conclusion, #231B1C demands careful contrast ratio checks and supplementary visual cues to meet accessibility standards effectively.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332b2c
A slightly lighter brown that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #302e2f
A dark gray that offers improved readability and accessibility compared to the original color.
- #2a2223
A warmer toned brown, similar in darkness to the original, but with slightly better contrast when used with light text.
Applications
Website Background Accents
In web design, #231B1C can be used sparingly as a background accent color or for decorative elements. Due to its low contrast, it should not be used for text or interactive elements without careful consideration of accessibility. This color can effectively communicate sophistication and understated elegance. It can be used on websites related to premium products, high-end services or exclusive content. It can be combined with other darker hues to create a moody and immersive atmosphere.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, #231B1C can be applied to walls, furniture, or accessories to create a sense of warmth and intimacy. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather, as well as metallic accents like gold or brass. This color is well-suited for creating a cozy and inviting living space. It is especially suited for smaller spaces or areas intended for relaxation. It can be combined with lighter neutral colours to create a visually balanced space.
Fashion Apparel and Accessories
In fashion, #231B1C can be used as a neutral base color for clothing or accessories. It can be paired with bolder colors or patterns to create a sophisticated and understated look. It works especially well for outerwear, such as jackets or coats. It also works as a great color for accessories like bags and shoes. It conveys a feeling of sophistication and can be easily combined with a wide range of other colors and styles.