Black Olive
General Information about Black Olive (#232B0E)
#232B0E, commonly known as Black Olive, is a very dark shade of green-tinged brown. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.73% red, 16.86% green, and 5.49% blue. This color's subdued and earthy nature makes it a popular choice in various design applications, from web development to interior decorating. It exudes a sense of sophistication and grounding, often used to create a calming and natural ambiance. Black Olive is frequently employed where a dark, neutral tone is desired, offering a subtle alternative to traditional black or grey. Its low saturation contributes to its versatility, allowing it to blend seamlessly with various color palettes.
The color #232B0E, also known as Black Olive, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low lightness value (approximately 5%) means it offers extremely poor contrast against standard white backgrounds. This lack of contrast makes text and other visual elements difficult to read, particularly for users with visual impairments or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to avoid using #232B0E for text or interactive elements unless paired with a very light color that provides a contrast ratio meeting WCAG guidelines (ideally 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Careful consideration is needed for background and foreground color combinations, and tools like contrast checkers should be employed to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Using this color sparingly and strategically, focusing on non-essential visual elements, can minimize potential accessibility issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #232B0E can serve as a subtle accent color. Due to its dark nature, it is best used for minor design elements like borders or dividers. For example, consider using it sparingly as a background for a navigation bar on a website with a minimalist design. Its muted tone can add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the user's eye. However, avoid using it for text or interactive elements without sufficient contrast to ensure readability and accessibility. Proper usage allows it to add a grounded, natural feel to the overall aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, #232B0E can be incorporated to create a sense of depth and earthiness. Use it as a paint color for a feature wall in a living room or bedroom to establish a focal point. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the organic feel of a space. Consider using it in smaller doses for decorative items such as cushions or lampshades to add subtle sophistication. Remember to balance the dark tone with lighter colors and ample natural light to prevent the space from feeling too closed in. This color is ideal for creating a cozy and grounded atmosphere.
Fashion Applications
In fashion, this shade offers an earthy, sophisticated look for garments and accessories. Consider using this color for outerwear like trench coats or bomber jackets. It is also an excellent choice for accessories like leather belts, bags, or even boots. This color is easily paired with neutrals like beige, cream, or grey, as well as bolder colors like mustard or burgundy. It can lend an understated elegance to more formal attire and a rugged, practical feel to casual wear. Because this color is a neutral dark tone, it is incredibly versatile.