Sepia Black
General Information about #250000
The hex color #250000, sometimes referred to as Sepia Black, is a very dark shade of red. It belongs to the family of black colors, but it has a distinct reddish undertone which gives it a subtle warmth. This color is created by setting the red component to 25, while the green and blue components are set to 0, resulting in a very muted and dark appearance. Due to its low luminance, #250000 is often perceived as nearly black. Colors like #250000 can be effective for creating a somber or sophisticated mood, but it's essential to use them carefully, considering their limited visibility. In graphic design and web development, this color is typically used as an accent rather than for primary elements, especially for text, due to its low contrast against lighter backgrounds. Its limited brightness makes it challenging to use in situations requiring high readability.
The hex color #250000, often referred to as Sepia Black, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against almost any background color, including white. This makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness, to distinguish text or interface elements using this color. To improve accessibility, it is strongly advised to avoid using #250000 for text, icons, or other essential visual components. If this color is part of a brand identity, consider using it sparingly and always ensure sufficient contrast with the background. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as per WCAG guidelines. Tools such as contrast checkers can help evaluate the contrast ratio of color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #330000
A slightly lighter shade of black, providing a bit more contrast while maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #3a0000
A dark brown that offers a subtle warmth and improved visibility compared to pure black.
- #400000
This color represents a good alternative because it presents a higher level of luminosity and therefore a higher contrast ratio.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #250000 can be used sparingly as a background accent or for decorative elements to evoke a sense of depth or mystery. However, it should never be used for critical text or interactive elements due to its poor contrast. When used as a background, ensure that foreground elements have sufficient contrast, such as using light text colors. For data visualization, this color can be used to represent the lowest values in a dataset, provided there are sufficient intermediate colors for differentiation. Avoid using it in areas where clarity and readability are paramount.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, #250000 can be used as a sophisticated base color for garments, accessories, or footwear. Its deep, muted tone offers a refined and elegant aesthetic. It can be paired with lighter, contrasting colors to create a visually appealing outfit. In interior design, this color can be used as a subtle accent wall or for furnishing elements like cushions, throws, or decorative objects. It adds a touch of depth and sophistication to the space. Remember to balance the dark color with lighter elements to prevent the room from feeling too somber.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In beauty, this shade closely resembles the blackest shades available and is often used for defining eyeliners or eyeshadows in subtle, sophisticated looks. The dark undertone provides depth without being overly harsh, and it works well in creating smoky eye effects. Its compatibility with various skin tones means it can enhance features while adding a touch of elegance, making it a favorable choice for makeup artists aiming for understated glamour.