Oil
General Information about #261A15
#261A15, also known as 'Oil,' is a very dark, muted shade of brown that evokes feelings of earthiness, antiquity, and understated elegance. It belongs to the brown color family and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance. In color theory, brown is often associated with stability, reliability, and a connection to nature. The specific hue of #261A15 suggests a sense of depth and richness, reminiscent of aged wood or dark soil. This color is commonly employed to create a sense of warmth, comfort, or vintage charm in various design contexts. Its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds, accents, or as a grounding element within a broader color palette, lending a touch of sophistication and depth.
The color #261A15, often referred to as 'Oil,' presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value means that it offers very little contrast when used as either a foreground or background color against common defaults like white or black. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. Text rendered in #261A15 against a white background, for instance, would likely fail accessibility standards, making it difficult for many users to read. To mitigate these issues, it is essential to pair #261A15 with much lighter colors to achieve an adequate contrast ratio. Tools are available to check contrast ratios and ensure compliance with accessibility standards, helping designers create inclusive and user-friendly experiences. Consideration must also be given to users with color vision deficiencies who may struggle to distinguish between colors with low contrast, so using this color for essential elements should be done with caution.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332620
A slightly lighter shade that maintains the earthy tone but provides better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #402010
A warmer, richer brown that offers more visual distinction while staying within a similar color family.
- #403025
A lighter version of the main color for better visibility on texts and background contrasts.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #261A15 can be used sparingly as an accent color for elements like borders, dividers, or subtle background textures. Due to its dark nature, it's best suited for creating a sophisticated and understated feel, especially when paired with lighter, contrasting colors for readability. It can also evoke a sense of earthiness or vintage charm, fitting for websites related to nature, history, or handcrafted goods. However, it is not recommended as the primary color for text or interactive elements because of accessibility concerns.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #261A15 can be used to create a cozy and warm atmosphere. It is great choice for creating accent walls, furniture pieces, or decorative accessories. Due to its neutral nature, it pairs well with a variety of other colors and materials, making it versatile choice for different design styles, ranging from rustic to modern. However, care should be taken to ensure the room remains well-lit and doesn't feel too dark or somber.
Fashion Neutral
In fashion, #261A15 can be used as a neutral base color for clothing or accessories. Its understated nature makes it a versatile choice, pairing well with bolder colors and patterns. It could evoke a sense of sophistication, durability, and timelessness.