Oil
General Information about #26210E
The hex color #26210E, often referred to as "Oil," is a very dark shade of brown. It's composed of 15.29% red, 12.94% green, and 5.49% blue. In the RGB color space, it's represented as (38, 33, 14). This color tends to evoke feelings of earthiness, richness, and subdued sophistication. Its low brightness makes it a challenging color to work with regarding accessibility, requiring careful consideration of contrast ratios. The hex code #26210E can be used in various applications, from web design and graphic arts to interior decoration, but it is crucial to be aware of its limitations.
The color #26210E presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against most background colors, particularly white or light shades. This makes text or elements using this color difficult to read for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair #26210E with a very light color that provides a high contrast ratio, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Avoid using #26210E for critical visual elements such as links or buttons without careful consideration of the contrast. Using tools to check contrast ratios is essential before implementation.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332d1a
A slightly lighter shade of brown that provides a similar aesthetic but with improved readability.
- #333333
A darker shade of gray that offers better contrast when paired with lighter text or backgrounds.
- #2e3423
A muted green that can evoke a similar natural or earthy feel while providing slightly better contrast.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #26210E can be used sparingly as an accent color for borders or dividers to add depth and richness to a layout. Due to its darkness, it's best suited for situations where high contrast is not essential, or when paired with very light elements. It can be effective in creating a sense of luxury or sophistication, especially in combination with metallic or gold accents. Furthermore, it can be used for website footers or backgrounds of small sections to provide a visual anchor.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #26210E can be used as a wall color in smaller rooms or as an accent color in larger spaces. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It is suitable for creating a cozy and intimate ambiance in spaces such as home libraries, studies, or bedrooms. Further, using this color on furniture can create a sophisticated mood.
Fashion - Grounding Color
In fashion, #26210E can serve as a grounding color for outfits, offering a neutral base upon which to layer more vibrant hues. It is well-suited for creating a sophisticated and understated look, and works well in garments like jackets, trousers, and accessories. It can also be used to create a vintage or rustic aesthetic, particularly when paired with textured fabrics like corduroy or tweed. The color is especially useful during fall and winter seasons.