Oil
General Information about #231C1B
The hexadecimal color code #231c1b represents a very dark shade of brown, often perceived as similar to the color of oil. It is composed of 13.73% red, 11% green, and 10.59% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of R:35, G:28, B:27. Its CMYK representation is C:0, M:0.20, Y:0.23, K:0.86. This color typically evokes feelings of sophistication, earthiness, and can be associated with elegance and richness. Due to its low brightness, it is often used as an accent color rather than a dominant one. Understanding its characteristics is important for effective use in design and other applications.
The hex color #231c1b, often referred to as 'Oil,' presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Due to its dark nature, the contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds is relatively low. This can make text and other visual elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use this color with lighter text colors that provide sufficient contrast, adhering to WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Implementing tools to check contrast ratios during development is highly advisable. Considering users with color blindness is also important; ensure that critical information isn't conveyed solely through color and that alternative visual cues are available. Proper use of ARIA attributes can also enhance accessibility for assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade of grey, offering better contrast while maintaining a similar dark and muted tone.
- #211e1e
A darker shade of brown that closely resembles dark oil, but may provide slightly better contrast in certain contexts.
- #282828
A less saturated black that appears softer and can improve readability on screens.
Applications
Web Design
In web development, #231c1b can be utilized for creating sophisticated and muted website themes. It's often employed for backgrounds, headers, or footers to provide a sense of elegance and professionalism. When used with lighter text and contrasting elements, it can create a visually appealing experience. Avoid using it for crucial interactive elements without sufficient contrast, such as buttons or links, to ensure usability. Complementary colors such as off-whites or light greys should be used to avoid visual fatigue.
Interior Design
In interior design, #231c1b can serve as an accent wall color or for furniture pieces to bring a sense of grounding and sophistication to a room. It pairs well with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, and natural materials like wood and stone. When incorporated into textiles, such as curtains or cushions, this color contributes to a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Ensure that the room has adequate lighting to prevent the color from making the space feel too dark or small.
Fashion & Beauty
In the realm of beauty and cosmetics, #231c1b can be utilized for creating striking eye makeup looks or as a deep shade for nail polish. It is often paired with lighter, shimmering shades to create contrast and depth. This color can also be used as a base for creating smoky eye effects. In fashion, it can be employed in clothing items, particularly for formal wear or outerwear. Combining #231c1b with brighter colors can create a bold and dramatic effect.