Oil
General Information about #231D15 (Oil)
The hexadecimal color #231D15, commonly known as Oil, is a dark, muted shade that evokes feelings of warmth, stability, and earthiness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.73% red, 11.37% green, and 8.24% blue. It falls within the dark brown color spectrum, and its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications. Colors similar to Oil are often found in natural environments, such as dark soil, tree bark, and aged wood. The color's hex code, #231D15, provides a standardized way to represent and reproduce this specific shade across various digital platforms and physical media. Its usage is best employed for backgrounds or to evoke warmth.
The hex color #231D15, also known as Oil, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. With such a dark shade, careful consideration must be given to color contrast, especially when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential to ensure readability and usability for individuals with visual impairments. When using this color for text, it's crucial to pair it with a very light color to meet the contrast ratios specified in WCAG 2.1. For instance, a white or very pale yellow would be more appropriate. Avoid using it for crucial UI elements without proper contrast adjustments to avoid issues for users with low vision or color blindness. Using color contrast checking tools is advisable.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter, warmer alternative that maintains a similar earthy tone while offering improved contrast with light text.
A cooler, slightly desaturated alternative that provides a more neutral background while remaining in the same general color family.
This color provides a similar dark base but with a hint of green, which can be useful in contexts where a subtle organic feel is desired.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #231D15 can serve as an elegant background color for sections intended to evoke sophistication and stability. It pairs exceptionally well with gold or cream-colored accents, which are excellent choices for text and interactive elements. It can also be used for elements like navigation bars, headers, or footers to ground the overall design and establish a sense of depth. This color is most effective when used sparingly and complemented with lighter hues to ensure readability and user engagement.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, the Oil color is often employed to add depth and warmth to spaces. It works well as a wall color in libraries, studies, or home theaters to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The color also complements natural materials like wood and leather, making it suitable for furniture and accents in rustic or traditional designs. When using #231D15 in interior spaces, it's essential to balance it with ample lighting and lighter contrasting elements to prevent the room from feeling too dark or enclosed. Furthermore, Oil makes an excellent accent color in larger rooms.
Fashion Apparel
In the world of fashion, #231D15 is an appealing choice for creating a classic and understated look. This shade works particularly well for garments like jackets, trousers, or skirts, providing a neutral base that can be easily combined with other colors and textures. Consider incorporating it into outfits that feature natural fabrics like wool, linen, or leather to highlight its natural earthiness. Furthermore, it can be used as a canvas to showcase accessories in gold, bronze, or cream.