Black Olive
General Information about Black Olive
The hex color #252E15, also known as Black Olive, is a very dark shade of green, almost appearing black to the casual observer. It belongs to the green color family but has very low saturation and luminance values. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, #252E15 is composed of 14.51% red, 18.04% green, and 8.24% blue. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, its composition is 19.57% cyan, 0% magenta, 54.55% yellow, and 81.96% black. This means that to create this color in print, a high percentage of black ink is required, along with smaller amounts of cyan and yellow. Black Olive is often associated with nature, earthiness, and understated elegance due to its dark, muted tones.
The color #252E15, often referred to as Black Olive, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. This means users with visual impairments, such as low vision or color blindness, may struggle to read the text. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair this dark shade with much lighter colors. Consider using it for decorative elements rather than essential text, or implementing a robust color contrast checker during the design process to ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines. For instance, a white or light gray text on a #252E15 background would enhance readability. Always prioritize inclusivity by testing color combinations with various accessibility tools and considering user feedback.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Black Olive (#252E15) can be used sparingly to create a sophisticated and understated aesthetic. It's suitable for website headers, footers, or sidebars, especially when combined with lighter, contrasting colors for text and other interactive elements. Using it for large blocks of text is not advisable due to poor contrast. Black Olive provides a natural and earthy touch, especially for websites related to nature, sustainability, or organic products. Consider incorporating it into icon designs or as a subtle background texture to enhance visual interest without overwhelming the user experience.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, Black Olive can be used to evoke a sense of calm and sophistication. It works well in rooms with natural light, where its subtle green undertones can be fully appreciated. It can be used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. Combining it with natural materials like wood and stone can enhance its organic appeal. In fashion, Black Olive can be used as a versatile neutral color for clothing and accessories. It pairs well with a variety of other colors, including earthy tones, jewel tones, and metallics, making it a staple in any wardrobe. It is excellent for creating a sense of rustic luxury.
Graphic Design
In graphic design, Black Olive offers a sophisticated, muted tone ideal for backgrounds, text accents, and branding elements. Its subtle earthiness lends a touch of organic sophistication, making it suitable for brands that want to communicate natural, sustainable, or classic values. However, careful attention to contrast is crucial: pair it with lighter colors or fonts to ensure legibility. Because it is such a dark shade, use it sparingly in graphics with small text.