Ebony Clay
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #23223B represents a dark, muted shade of color often described as "Ebony Clay." It falls within the blue-violet spectrum but has a significantly desaturated character, which gives it a neutral appearance. This color is created by combining relatively low amounts of red, green, and blue light in the RGB color model. The color has applications ranging from web and graphic design to fashion and interior design, often used for backgrounds, text, and visual elements. Its muted nature makes it a versatile choice for designs that require a subtle and understated color palette. In the fashion industry, it could be seen in business casual apparel or garments targeting mature audiences.
The color #23223B, a dark, muted shade, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value means that text rendered in this color requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. For body text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against the background is recommended, while larger text requires a ratio of 3:1. Using a very light color like white or a bright yellow for text on a #23223B background will enhance readability. Tools like contrast checkers can help designers evaluate color combinations to ensure they meet accessibility standards. It is also recommended to avoid using color alone to convey important information; instead, supplement color cues with text labels or other visual indicators. This practice ensures that users who are colorblind can still understand the content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #23223B can be used for website backgrounds or dark-themed user interfaces. Its neutrality allows content to stand out while maintaining a modern aesthetic. It’s suitable for tech, finance, and creative agency websites that want to project sophistication and reliability. The color is especially effective when paired with brighter accent colors and clean typography. Further applications are control panels or dashboards, where this color creates a professional and focused environment. Using it sparingly can enhance usability and reduce eye strain during long sessions.
Interior Design
In interior design, #23223B can be utilized as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. This color provides a grounding effect, which can be paired with brighter colors. It is very well suited for modern and minimalist aesthetics, and can bring out the best of natural wood and metal elements. Consider it for home offices, living rooms, or bedrooms where a sense of calm and sophistication is desired. To create a balanced look, add plants, artwork, and textiles in complementary shades.
Fashion
In fashion, #23223B is an excellent choice for sophisticated garments such as formal dresses, jackets, or trousers. This dark shade can be easily styled for a sleek and elegant look, working as a neutral base that allows other colors and accessories to stand out. Consider using it in outerwear or knitwear pieces during colder months, providing a cozy yet stylish appearance. Metallic accessories or colorful scarves can add a pop of visual interest. It is very versatile and works in many different aesthetics.