Steel Gray
General Information about #231E3A
The hexadecimal color code #231E3A represents a dark shade of gray, often referred to as steel gray. It is composed of 13.73% red, 11.76% green, and 22.75% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to (35, 30, 58). This particular shade of gray leans towards the cooler side of the spectrum due to the higher concentration of blue. The color is frequently employed in designs where a sense of sophistication, neutrality, and understated elegance is desired. It has a luminance of 0.035, and the perceived lightness is quite low, making it a dark color. The color belongs to the gray color group, which is a color that is close to black, white or some mixture of them.
The color #231E3A, a deep steel gray, presents considerable accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Its low luminance necessitates careful selection of foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. To meet these standards, consider pairing it with light shades of white, cream, or pale yellow. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, appropriate focus indicators and sufficient size are crucial to enhance usability for users with visual impairments. Thoughtful application of this color is essential to avoid excluding or hindering users with disabilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
This color exudes sophistication, making it suitable for website headers, footers, and backgrounds that require a touch of elegance and professionalism. It can be paired with lighter shades of gray or off-white to create a balanced visual experience. Furthermore, in data visualization, it can represent secondary data points, allowing the primary data to stand out more prominently. Its neutral nature ensures it doesn't distract from the information being presented, making it a versatile choice for charts and graphs.
Interior Design
Steel Gray is a versatile and sophisticated color choice for interior design. It works exceptionally well as a base color for walls, providing a calming and elegant backdrop for furniture and decor. The neutrality of #231E3A allows it to blend seamlessly with various design styles, from modern minimalist to industrial chic. Consider using it in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices to create a serene and refined atmosphere. It pairs beautifully with metallic accents such as silver, gold, or copper, adding a touch of luxury and warmth.
Fashion
In fashion, #231E3A can be a staple color for creating versatile and sophisticated outfits. It can be used for creating structured garments such as blazers, trousers or skirts. This provides an elegant base that can be paired with brighter or pastel colors. Accessories in this color also provide sophistication, without overshadowing the garment itself. Also, it can serve as a neutral backdrop to showcase jewelry or other statement pieces.