Oil
General Information about #261D10
The hex color #261D10, often referred to as 'Oil,' is a dark, desaturated shade of brown. It belongs to the earth-tone color family and evokes feelings of warmth, stability, and nature. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 15.3% red, 11.4% green, and 6.3% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 26% magenta, 59% yellow, and 85% black. Colors like this are frequently used to simulate antique or rustic themes. Because of its darkness, this color should be carefully used with lighter colors to achieve sufficient contrast and readability. Its muted character makes it a versatile option for backgrounds and accents, provided accessibility is considered.
The color #261D10, also known as Oil, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. Its low luminance makes it difficult to read text rendered in this color against a light background, and even more problematic when used as a background color for light text. According to WCAG guidelines, it fails most contrast ratio tests, especially for small text. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with very light hues, ensuring a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using it for decorative purposes or large graphical elements is more acceptable, provided essential information isn't conveyed solely through this color. Consider providing alternative high-contrast themes for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33291d
A slightly lighter shade of brown that provides a bit more visibility while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #40240f
A more saturated brown that can stand out a bit more while still fitting into earth-tone palettes.
- #4a3f35
This color offers better contrast when paired with light text, making it more accessible.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, this color can be applied as a background for headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter text and minimalist layouts, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the website without overwhelming the user. It can also be used for borders and dividers to subtly separate content sections.
Interior Design Accent
This color is excellent for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in interior design. Use it for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, or as a primary color in studies or libraries. It complements natural materials like wood and leather, enhancing the room's overall aesthetic and making it feel cozy and comfortable.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, this color can be used for designing autumn and winter clothing lines. It's suitable for coats, sweaters, and accessories like scarves and hats. This color provides a neutral yet sophisticated look, fitting for both casual and formal occasions. Furthermore, it pairs nicely with denim, leather, and other natural fabrics.