Cocoa Brown
General Information about Cocoa Brown
The hexadecimal color code #261E23 represents a dark, muted shade of brown, often described as 'Cocoa Brown'. It is composed of 15.3% red, 11.8% green, and 13.7% blue. In the RGB color space, it signifies a relatively low intensity of all three primary colors, resulting in its subdued appearance. This color is commonly associated with earth tones, conveying feelings of warmth, comfort, and stability. In color theory, #261E23 can be classified as a tertiary color, falling between brown, black, and gray, which are all created through a mix of the primary colors. The color is well suited for backgrounds, or other interface elements. In the design field, cocoa brown is used to add sophistication.
The color #261E23, a deep cocoa brown, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text-based contexts. Its low luminance value of approximately 4.6 cd/m² means that it may not provide sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #261E23 for text, it is crucial to pair it with a very light background, such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very pale beige, to ensure adequate contrast. Alternatively, for interactive elements like buttons or links, consider using a lighter shade of brown or a contrasting accent color to improve visibility and usability. Thoroughly testing color combinations with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure compliance and to cater to a wider audience, especially those with visual sensitivities or color blindness. The use of tools can also provide better color selection to have a better contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design and Fashion
In web design, #261E23 can be used sparingly for background accents or borders to create a sophisticated and warm feel. Its darkness can be leveraged for elements where subtle depth is desired, such as shadow effects or dividers. However, avoid using it extensively for large blocks of text, as the low contrast can reduce readability. In user interface design, this color can be employed for non-essential elements like decorative icons or subtle indicators, while ensuring that essential interactive elements use colors with higher contrast for better usability. For fashion, #261E23 translates to a rich, earthy tone that evokes a sense of warmth and understated luxury. It can be incorporated into accessories like leather bags or belts, as well as garments like wool coats or knitwear. This color pairs well with other neutral shades like cream, beige, and gray, as well as jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue.
Interior Design
In interior design, #261E23 can be used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This shade can be applied to accent walls or used for furniture upholstery to add depth and warmth to a room. It works well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the overall sense of comfort. Consider using it in spaces where relaxation is key, such as a living room or bedroom, and complement it with soft lighting and warm-toned accents.
Branding
Cocoa Brown is a really good choice for branding when you want your brand to be seen as reliable and comforting. It's a nice, serious color without being too harsh, making it great for companies that want to seem down-to-earth and trustworthy. Think about using it in your logo, website, and even your packaging to help people get a feel for your brand's personality. When used well, Cocoa Brown can really make your brand stand out as a solid and approachable choice.