Ebony Clay
General Information about #243243
The hexadecimal color code #243243 represents a dark, muted shade of blue-gray. Often referred to as Ebony Clay, it evokes a sense of sophistication, depth, and understated elegance. In the RGB color model, #243243 is composed of 14.12% red, 19.61% green, and 26.27% blue. This composition gives it a cool, neutral tone suitable for various design applications. Colors similar to #243243 are found in the family of dark grays and blues. It is a color that tends to recede visually, making it useful for backgrounds or elements where you want other colors to stand out. Its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice in art, design, and fashion, and is widely used in corporate branding for technology and financial institutions.
The color #243243, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Its relatively low luminance means that it may not provide sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read or interact with content. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for ensuring readability and usability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #243243, it's important to pair it with a significantly lighter color to meet these contrast requirements. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination is accessible. Consider using it for purely decorative elements where legibility is not a primary concern. If using for text, conduct thorough accessibility testing with users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #435162
A lighter shade of gray that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #344253
A slightly desaturated blue-gray that can provide a softer and more visually appealing alternative while maintaining some of the original color's characteristics.
- #344253
A lighter shade of #243243. Slightly brightens the color for better visability
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, Ebony Clay (#243243) can be effectively used for website backgrounds to create a sophisticated and muted atmosphere. It works particularly well for portfolios, corporate sites, or blogs aiming for a professional feel. Use it sparingly for text as it has low contrast. It is better suited as a background color, where it can be combined with lighter text colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Its dark tone can also be used in website headers or footers to define the structure of the page, providing a clean and organized look.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Ebony Clay serves as an excellent choice for accent walls in modern or minimalist spaces. Its dark and subdued hue adds depth and a touch of elegance to a room without being overpowering. The color can be paired with lighter furniture and décor to create a balanced and harmonious environment. It is most useful in areas where you want to create a calming mood, such as bedrooms or home offices. The color also works well in combination with natural materials like wood or stone, which adds a warmth and natural feeling to the space.
Fashion Outerwear Base
In fashion, Ebony Clay provides a versatile base for creating understated and chic outfits. It works particularly well for outerwear, such as coats or jackets, and can be easily paired with a variety of colors and textures. It can be used to balance more vibrant colors, or provide the foundation for a neutral look. It makes it easier to construct a timeless, practical wardrobe that can be used for various occasions.