Steel Gray
General Information about #262238
The hexadecimal color code #262238 represents a dark shade of gray, often referred to as "Steel Gray". It is composed of 15.29% red, 13.33% green, and 21.96% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as (38, 34, 56). This color falls within the cool spectrum and evokes feelings of sophistication, neutrality, and composure. Due to its dark nature, it is often used as a background color or an accent color to provide contrast. It's a popular choice for modern designs aiming for a sleek and professional appearance. The color is not particularly vibrant or saturated, resulting in a muted and understated aesthetic.
The hex color #262238, a dark steel gray, presents certain accessibility challenges, primarily concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires light-colored text to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using a color contrast checker is advisable to verify compliance with WCAG guidelines. Moreover, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information; use alternative cues such as text labels or icons. Ensure interactive elements have sufficient contrast in their different states (hover, focus, active) to be easily discernible. Testing with assistive technologies, such as screen readers, is also crucial to guarantee content is accessible to all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #434052
A lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast with dark text and other elements.
- #36324a
A slightly blue-tinted gray that can add a touch of sophistication while maintaining good readability.
- #28243a
Dark alternative with subtle blue tint, offering a similar feel but slightly more vibrant and interesting.
Applications
Website Backgrounds and UI Elements
In web development, #262238 is an excellent choice for website backgrounds, especially when aiming for a modern and sophisticated look. It pairs well with lighter accent colors and can create a visually appealing contrast. This color can also be used for UI elements such as navigation bars, footers, or sidebars. Additionally, it is suitable for data visualization, providing a neutral backdrop for charts and graphs to stand out, enhancing clarity and readability. By employing this color strategically, designers can create a refined user experience.
Fashion Design
#262238 (Steel Gray) is well-suited for creating elegant and minimalist fashion designs. It can be used as a primary color for clothing items such as dresses, suits, or outerwear, providing a versatile and timeless aesthetic. When combined with brighter accent colors like gold, silver, or even a pop of red, it creates a sophisticated contrast that enhances the overall look. Furthermore, this color can be applied to accessories such as handbags, shoes, and jewelry, adding a touch of understated luxury.
Interior Design
Steel Gray (#262238) is a versatile color for interior design, lending itself well to modern, industrial, and minimalist aesthetics. It can be used on walls to create a calming and sophisticated backdrop, particularly in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. The color pairs effectively with natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, creating a balanced and harmonious environment. Additionally, #262238 can be used for furniture, such as sofas, chairs, and cabinets, providing a touch of elegance and refinement to the space.