Ebony Clay
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #232B3A represents a dark, muted shade of blue-gray, often described as 'Ebony Clay'. This color is composed of 13.73% red, 16.86% green, and 22.75% blue. In the RGB color model, it signifies a relatively low intensity across all three primary colors, resulting in its dark appearance. The color falls within the cool spectrum, lending it a sense of calmness and sophistication. It's commonly used in design to convey elegance, stability, and understated luxury. Its muted nature allows it to serve as a versatile background or accent color, blending seamlessly with a wide range of other hues, and is often chosen for its ability to create a refined and unobtrusive visual impression.
The hex color #232B3A, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its low luminance value means that it offers limited contrast against lighter backgrounds. Web developers should ensure that sufficient contrast is provided, adhering to WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using tools to check color contrast ratios is crucial. When pairing #232B3A with other colors, consider using lighter shades for text or interactive elements to ensure readability and usability. Additionally, provide alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, to convey information for users who may have difficulty distinguishing between colors with low contrast. Remember to test your designs with users who have visual impairments to validate accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333a4a
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast for text while maintaining a similar dark, muted tone.
- #444444
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to contrast with lighter elements.
- #283440
A dark, desaturated blue that provides a similar aesthetic with slightly better visibility.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #232B3A can serve as an elegant background color for sections needing a sophisticated, understated feel. It's suitable for headers, footers, or sidebars, particularly on websites for corporate, technology, or creative industries. Pairing it with lighter text colors, such as off-white or light gray, ensures readability. Furthermore, it can be used to create a dark mode aesthetic, reducing eye strain in low-light environments. Consider incorporating it into a design system as a primary or secondary background color to maintain visual consistency across a website or application, enhancing the user experience by providing a calm and professional look.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ebony Clay (#232B3A) introduces a sense of calm and sophistication to spaces. It can be used as a wall color in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Its neutrality allows it to pair well with a wide range of accent colors, from warm earthy tones to cool blues and greens. The color works especially well with natural materials like wood, stone, and leather, enhancing the space's overall texture and depth. Consider using it in combination with ample lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dark, creating a balanced and inviting environment.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #232B3A (Ebony Clay) can be utilized to create versatile and timeless pieces. It's a practical choice for outerwear, such as jackets and coats, and also works well for trousers, skirts, and dresses. Its neutrality allows it to be easily paired with a variety of colors and accessories. This color is particularly suited for creating minimalist and elegant looks. When used in clothing, it offers a sophisticated alternative to black, providing a softer, more subtle appearance. Accessorizing with metallic accents or bright pops of color can elevate the overall look, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.