Sepia Black
General Information about #240003
The hex color #240003, also known as Sepia Black, is a very dark shade of red with virtually no saturation. It resides at the extreme low end of the brightness spectrum, making it appear almost black to the human eye. Its RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values are R:36, G:0, B:3, indicating a strong dominance of the red channel and very little contribution from green or blue. This color evokes feelings of darkness, antiquity, and can even be associated with vintage or gothic aesthetics. The color is perceived more as a very dark desaturated red, rather than a true black, carrying a subtle hint of warmth.
The color #240003, a very dark, muted shade of red, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance makes it difficult to perceive, especially for individuals with low vision or color blindness. The contrast ratio against a standard white background is exceedingly poor, failing to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for text or interactive elements. To ensure inclusivity, it is crucial to avoid using #240003 for text, icons, or other essential visual elements without pairing it with a very light foreground color. When using this color in backgrounds, make sure the text on top has a sufficient contrast. Careful consideration and testing with accessibility tools are necessary to determine the optimal foreground color for readability and usability. Utilizing a color contrast checker is highly recommended to verify compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #300000
A slightly lighter shade of red, this color offers a bit more visibility while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #332200
A desaturated brown that can be used to evoke a somber or antique feel, similar to Sepia Black.
- #222222
This shade retains a dark tone but offers a more neutral base, providing greater flexibility when paired with lighter colors in a design.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Sepia Black (#240003) can be used sparingly as a background accent to create a sense of depth and mystery. When used on a header the website looks exclusive. It can be effective for websites aiming for a vintage or gothic aesthetic. However, it should never be used for large blocks of text due to readability issues. For interactive elements, brighter contrasting colors are a must to maintain usability. The color can be integrated into a design for a site about dark magic or gothic literature.
Interior Design
In interior design, Sepia Black can be incorporated as a subtle accent color in furniture or decor to add a touch of sophistication and drama. It works well in dimly lit spaces where a sense of intimacy is desired, such as a home theater or study. Pair it with lighter colors like cream or gold to prevent the room from feeling too dark and oppressive. Consider using it for small decorative items or as a contrasting hue in textured fabrics.
Fashion
Sepia Black can be used as a bold choice in fashion, particularly in evening wear or accessories. A dress, tie or scarf in this shade can be a sophisticated alternative to classic black, offering a touch of uniqueness. It can also be used to create a dramatic contrast with lighter or more vibrant colors in an outfit. Consider using it in velvet or silk fabrics for a luxurious feel.