Oil
General Information about #261919
The hex color #261919, often referred to as "Oil," is a dark, muted shade of brown with subtle red undertones. It belongs to the family of brownish-reds and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance. In the RGB color model, it consists of 15.29% red, 9.8% green, and 9.8% blue. This color is frequently associated with feelings of warmth, earthiness, and understated elegance. Due to its dark nature, it conveys a sense of depth and can be used to create a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. Its subtle complexity makes it versatile for various design applications, though it's essential to consider accessibility when using it for text or interactive elements. #261919 is a color that leans toward the more mysterious and reserved side of the spectrum.
The hex color #261919, also known as Oil, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very low luminance value of approximately 2% makes it difficult to discern against darker backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, this color fails all contrast ratio tests for normal text, large text, and graphical elements when paired with black. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use this color sparingly for text or interactive elements. When using #261919, a light contrasting color, such as whites or light grays, should be employed to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as recommended by WCAG. Avoid using #261919 for essential visual information without proper contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark, muted tone.
A more saturated color that can be used to add a pop of color while still complementing the original.
A dark brown providing more accessibility and readability, while still maintaining the earthiness of the original color.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #261919 can be used as a background color for sections intended to evoke a sense of sophistication and depth. It is not suitable for text due to accessibility issues, but it could be combined with a white or very light text. It can also be used for decorative elements or dividers to create a subtle visual hierarchy.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #261919 can be applied to accent walls or furniture to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather, as well as metallic accents in gold or bronze. However, overuse of dark colors can make a room feel smaller, so it's best used in well-lit spaces or combined with lighter, contrasting colors.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, this color creates a powerful background tone. Think of goth-inspired styles or vintage looks. This color can give some extra oomph to a garment.