Charade
General Information
The hex color #252A32, also known as Charade, is a dark, muted shade of gray with subtle cool undertones. It belongs to the family of neutral colors and possesses a low saturation, making it versatile for various design applications. In the RGB color model, #252A32 is composed of 14.51% red, 16.47% green, and 20% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.27, 0, 0, 0.8, indicating a substantial amount of black. This color is often associated with sophistication, elegance, and neutrality. It is frequently used as a background color or as an accent in graphic design, web development, and interior design. Its understated nature allows other elements to stand out while contributing a sense of depth and stability.
The color #252A32, also known as Charade, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its low lightness value results in a weak contrast against both white and black backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. When using this color for text, ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against the background for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using lighter shades of gray, white, or vibrant colors for text to ensure readability. For interactive elements like buttons, provide clear visual cues beyond color to indicate state changes and functionality. Employing techniques like borders, icons, or text labels alongside color can significantly improve accessibility. Always test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance with WCAG standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade of gray that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e232b
A darker shade for backgrounds, providing a richer, deeper feel without compromising readability when paired with lighter text.
- #ffffff
A brighter, neutral color that pairs nicely with #252A32 for a clean modern look, while improving readability.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Charade (#252A32) serves as an excellent choice for crafting sophisticated and understated website backgrounds. Its dark, muted tone provides a neutral canvas that allows content and graphics to stand out without overwhelming the user. When paired with lighter text and vibrant accents, it can create a visually appealing and modern aesthetic, ideal for corporate websites, portfolios, or blogs that aim for a professional look. The color's inherent subtlety also lends itself well to minimalist designs, allowing for a focus on typography and imagery to convey the brand's message effectively. Using this color in website design can evoke a sense of elegance and sophistication, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
Interior Design
In interior design, #252A32 can be employed to create a calming and sophisticated ambiance in living spaces. It works particularly well in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. This color can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces to introduce depth and richness to the room. When combined with lighter, warmer tones like beige or cream, it can achieve a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Furthermore, incorporating natural textures such as wood or stone can complement the color's understated elegance, resulting in a harmonious and visually appealing interior design scheme.
UI/UX Design for Dark Themes
In UI/UX design, Charade can serve as a primary color for dark-themed interfaces. Its dark tone reduces eye strain in low-light environments, making it ideal for applications used at night or in dimly lit spaces. When paired with lighter text and strategically placed accents, it can create a visually pleasing and user-friendly experience. This color can be used for backgrounds, panels, and other UI elements to provide a cohesive and modern look. Properly implemented, can enhance the overall usability and aesthetics of the application.