Outer Space
General Information about #253538
The hexadecimal color #253538, also known as Outer Space, is a dark, muted shade of gray-green. In the RGB color model, it consists of 14.51% red, 21.96% green, and 22.75% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.36, 0.03, 0.00, 0.77. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, sophistication, and neutrality. It is a versatile color that can be used in a variety of design applications, from web design to interior decorating. Because of its low saturation, it pairs well with brighter, more vibrant colors, allowing them to stand out. It is important to note that due to its darkness, it may pose some accessibility challenges if used as a text color on a light background; therefore, it's generally recommended to use a lighter text color to ensure sufficient contrast and readability.
The hex color #253538, also known as Outer Space, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 5% means it offers very little contrast against a standard white background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. #253538 falls far short of these recommendations when paired with white, meaning text rendered in this color on a white background would be difficult for many users to read. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter text color, such as white or a very light gray, to significantly increase the contrast ratio. Alternatively, if #253538 is used as a background color, ensure the foreground text is a light, contrasting color. Tools are available online to calculate contrast ratios and help choose accessible color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #334756
A slightly lighter shade provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark, neutral aesthetic.
- #4a5d68
Offers a higher contrast ratio for better readability, suitable for text on light backgrounds.
- #3f484a
Provides a warmer tone while still being a dark, muted color, creating a more inviting feel.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Outer Space (#253538) provides a sophisticated and calming backdrop for website headers and footers. Its neutrality allows for bolder accent colors to stand out, creating a visually appealing and balanced design. This color evokes a sense of professionalism and can be particularly effective for websites in the technology, finance, or consulting industries. To ensure readability, pair it with light-colored text and interactive elements that provide sufficient contrast. The color's understated nature also makes it suitable for minimalist website designs.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Outer Space serves as an excellent choice for accent walls or furniture pieces in modern and contemporary spaces. Its deep, muted tone adds depth and sophistication to a room, creating a sense of tranquility and elegance. When used as an accent wall, it can be paired with lighter, warmer neutral colors to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. This color works well with natural materials like wood and stone, further enhancing the room's overall aesthetic. It is a particularly good choice for bedrooms, studies, or living rooms.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Outer Space can be used as a sophisticated alternative to black, offering a softer and more nuanced look. It can be used for clothing items such as jackets, trousers, or skirts, creating a versatile and timeless wardrobe. This color pairs well with both neutral and bolder colors, making it easy to create a variety of outfits. It is an excellent choice for creating a professional yet stylish look. Furthermore, it serves as a great color for accessories, such as bags or shoes.