Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay
The hex color #23203E, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade that belongs to the family of cool, neutral colors. It exhibits a sophisticated and understated aesthetic, often associated with elegance, mystery, and depth. In the RGB color model, #23203E is composed of 13.73% red, 12.55% green, and 24.31% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.43, 0.48, 0.00, 0.76, indicating that it requires a significant amount of black to achieve its dark tone. This color is well-suited for applications where a sense of formality and reserve is desired, often used in designs that aim to convey trustworthiness and stability. It’s a versatile color that can be used as a background or accent, provided careful attention is paid to contrast and accessibility.
The hex color #23203E, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, sufficient contrast is crucial to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Given its dark nature, #23203E requires careful selection of foreground text colors. Light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of yellow or green would be most appropriate to achieve adequate contrast. Testing with accessibility tools is highly recommended to validate contrast ratios and ensure compliance with accessibility standards, fostering a more inclusive user experience. Developers should also consider providing alternative themes or color schemes to accommodate users with specific visual preferences or requirements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333050
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast when used as a background.
- #303030
A more neutral dark gray that can be easier to pair with various foreground colors.
- #332a4a
Provides a slightly more vibrant alternative while remaining in the dark, cool toned family.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Ebony Clay can serve as a sophisticated background for websites aiming for a modern and elegant feel. Its dark tone creates a sense of depth and can make lighter content elements pop. It is particularly well-suited for portfolios, design agency websites, or online magazines, where a sleek and professional appearance is crucial. When using #23203E as a background, ensure high contrast with text and other elements to maintain readability and accessibility. Consider using it for headers, footers, or sidebars to add visual interest without overwhelming the user.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ebony Clay can be used to create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere in living spaces. It works exceptionally well in accent walls, home theaters, or studies, where a sense of enclosure and focus is desired. Pair it with lighter, contrasting colors like off-white, beige, or light gray to balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling too heavy. Metallic accents, such as gold or copper, can add a touch of luxury and sophistication. Consider the lighting in the room, as darker colors can absorb light, requiring additional illumination.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #23203E evokes a sense of mystery and sophistication, perfect for evening wear or statement pieces. It can be used in garments made of luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk to enhance its richness. This color works well as a base for creating a monochrome outfit or can be paired with other jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue for a striking contrast. Accessorize with metallic details to add a touch of glamour. Consider using it in outerwear like coats or jackets for a bold and elegant look.