Oil
General Information about #232311
The hex color #232311, often referred to as 'Oil' in informal contexts, is a very dark shade of brown with a slightly greenish undertone. It falls within the range of colors that are perceived as earthy, muted, and somewhat desaturated. Its RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values are R:35, G:35, and B:17, indicating a higher concentration of red and green compared to blue, which contributes to its brownish appearance. In the context of color theory, #232311 can be described as a tertiary color, resulting from mixing a primary color with a secondary color. This color's darkness results in a very low luminance value. This hue finds applications in various design fields due to its subdued and understated nature.
The color #232311, often referred to as 'Oil', presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in very low contrast against typical light backgrounds like white (#FFFFFF). This low contrast makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, such as low vision or color blindness, to distinguish text or important visual elements rendered in this color. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. To improve accessibility, it is highly recommended to pair #232311 with much lighter colors, ensuring a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools are available online to check the contrast ratio between two colors. Avoid using #232311 for critical information or interactive elements without careful consideration of its impact on users with disabilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
In web design, 'Oil' (#232311) can serve as a sophisticated background color for specific sections, particularly when aiming for a vintage or industrial aesthetic. Due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly and always paired with light-colored text or elements to ensure readability. Consider employing it in website footers, sidebars, or as a subtle accent color. Proper use of padding and spacing around elements is also vital for better user experience. Remember to regularly test the contrast ratio to guarantee it meets accessibility standards, enhancing the overall usability of the website.
Interior Design
Within interior design, 'Oil' can contribute to a moody and intimate atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms, studies, or home theaters. It pairs well with natural wood tones, metallic accents (brass, copper), and textured fabrics. Remember that good lighting is essential when using dark colors in interiors; incorporate multiple light sources to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed or gloomy. When using it in larger areas it is recommended to create contrast with lighter elements.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Oil creates a bold statement suitable for evening wear or accessories. This dark shade can be used to create a sense of mystery or a more industrial feeling, similar to a dark metal. Pair with light fabrics to create contrast to give depth to an outfit. It can be incorporated into leather goods to give it a worn look.