Bastille
General Information about #262230
The hexadecimal color code #262230, commonly referred to as Bastille, is a dark, muted shade of gray with subtle undertones of purple. It falls within the range of cool colors and conveys a sense of sophistication, depth, and understated elegance. In the RGB color model, #262230 is composed of 15.29% red, 13.33% green, and 18.82% blue. This combination creates a color that is neither overtly warm nor cold, making it a versatile choice for various applications. The color's relative darkness lends itself well to creating contrast when paired with lighter colors, enhancing readability and visual appeal. Bastille is often associated with modernity, refinement, and a touch of mystery. Its subtle nature allows it to be used effectively in both minimalist and more complex design schemes, providing a solid and grounding foundation.
The hex color #262230, also known as Bastille, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given the darkness of #262230, designers should carefully select text colors and font sizes to meet these standards. Tools like contrast checkers can be valuable for verifying compliance. Additionally, consider providing alternative color schemes for users with visual impairments. Employing ARIA attributes to enhance the semantic structure can also improve accessibility for screen reader users. Furthermore, avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information, as this can exclude users who are colorblind.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #403b4a
A lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast for text and other elements, improving readability and accessibility.
- #332f3d
A slightly warmer shade of gray that can add a touch of visual interest while remaining neutral and versatile.
- #000080
A dark blue that gives a very dark and shaded impression.
Applications
Website Backgrounds and UI Elements
Bastille (#262230) can serve as a sophisticated background for website headers and footers. Its dark, muted tone provides a sense of depth and professionalism, allowing brighter elements and content to stand out. In user interfaces, it can be employed for sidebars or navigation menus, creating a visually distinct area without overwhelming the user. The color is versatile enough to be used in both minimalist and complex designs, providing a solid foundation for visual hierarchy and a focus on content. Ensure that any text displayed on top of it has adequate contrast for accessibility.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, #262230 can be applied to create a moody and dramatic atmosphere. It's well-suited for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, especially when paired with lighter furniture and decor to balance the darkness. The color also works well in home theaters or media rooms, reducing glare and enhancing the viewing experience. It brings a sense of intimacy and sophistication, creating a cocooning effect. Consider adding metallic accents like gold or copper to add warmth and prevent the space from feeling too cold or sterile.
Fashion Apparel and Accessories
In fashion, Bastille can serve as a foundational color for creating elegant and understated outfits. It can be used for jackets, trousers, or dresses, providing a versatile base for layering with brighter colors or complementary neutrals. The color also works well for accessories such as handbags or shoes, adding a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Its neutrality allows it to be paired with a wide range of colors and textures, making it a practical choice for building a capsule wardrobe.