Oil

General Information

The hex color #261A1F, often referred to as 'Oil,' is a deep, muted shade of brown with subtle reddish undertones. It belongs to the brown color family and is characterized by its low saturation and relatively dark luminance. In the RGB color model, #261A1F is composed of 15.3% red, 10.2% green, and 12.2% blue. This composition gives it a warm, earthy quality that evokes feelings of richness, stability, and sophistication. Colors similar to #261A1F are often associated with nature, wood, and soil, lending themselves well to designs that aim to convey a sense of groundedness or authenticity. In color psychology, browns are often seen as reliable and supportive, making them a popular choice for branding and designs that seek to inspire trust and confidence.

The hex color #261A1F, also known as Oil, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value (a measure of perceived brightness) means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background may not provide sufficient contrast against lighter text. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Oil likely falls short of these recommendations when paired with many common text colors, potentially making content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, designers should carefully select foreground colors that offer high contrast, such as bright yellows, greens, or whites. Additionally, tools are available to calculate the contrast ratio between two colors, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards and a better experience for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web development, #261A1F can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites aiming for a dark and elegant theme. It is particularly well-suited for portfolios, blogs, or online magazines focused on topics like fashion, art, or design. To ensure readability, it should be paired with light-colored text and interactive elements. Additionally, it can be used for decorative elements such as borders, dividers, or icons to add depth and visual interest to the layout. The key is to use it sparingly and strategically to create a balanced and visually appealing design. Furthermore, it could be incorporated into data visualizations to represent low values or emphasize specific data points, enhancing the overall narrative of the presentation.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, #261A1F can be used to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere in living rooms, bedrooms, or home theaters. It works well as a wall color, especially when paired with lighter furniture and decor to provide contrast. It can also be used for accent pieces such as cushions, throws, or curtains to add warmth and depth to the space. When combined with soft lighting and plush textures, #261A1F can create a luxurious and inviting environment that promotes relaxation and comfort. This color is especially effective in rooms with ample natural light, where it can create a striking contrast with the bright surroundings.

• Fashion

  In fashion, #261A1F embodies sophistication and versatility, lending itself seamlessly to both casual and formal wear. As a dominant color, it exudes understated elegance in dresses, suits, or outerwear, offering a timeless appeal. When incorporated as an accent in accessories such as belts, shoes, or handbags, it adds a touch of refinement to any ensemble. #261A1F also pairs exceptionally well with contrasting hues, such as gold or ivory, to create visually striking and memorable looks. Its ability to complement a wide range of skin tones makes it a staple in wardrobes worldwide, ensuring its enduring popularity among fashion enthusiasts.

Complementary color

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