Shark
General Information about #262526
The hex color #262526, often referred to as 'Shark,' is a dark gray color that evokes feelings of sophistication, neutrality, and modernity. It belongs to the gray color family and is commonly used in design to convey a sense of understated elegance. In the RGB color model, #262526 is composed of 15.3% red, 14.9% green, and 15.3% blue. Its CMYK values are 0% cyan, 2% magenta, 0% yellow, and 84.7% black. This color is often chosen for backgrounds, text, and graphic elements where a subtle and refined look is desired. The name 'Shark' suggests a sleek and powerful presence, making it suitable for brands aiming to project confidence and reliability.
The hex color #262526, also known as Shark, presents certain accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires a light background 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. Shark often fails to meet these contrast requirements when paired with other dark shades. Therefore, it's crucial to use contrast checking tools to verify compliance and consider lighter alternatives for improved accessibility. In user interface design, using #262526 sparingly can help draw attention to specific elements, but always prioritize readability and provide alternative styling options for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter gray that maintains a sense of sophistication while offering better contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #36454f
A dark charcoal gray that provides a softer, more approachable feel compared to pure black.
- #433e36
A desaturated brown that can offer a warmer, more natural alternative while still remaining neutral.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #262526 can be used for website backgrounds to create a sophisticated and modern feel. It's often paired with white or light-colored text to ensure readability. For user interface elements, it can serve as a subtle background for input fields or buttons, providing a visual separation without being too distracting. However, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast for accessibility. Also, it would be a very cool color for dark mode themes, creating a sophisticated and clean aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, #262526 can be used for accent walls or furniture to add depth and sophistication to a room. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. This dark gray can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially in living rooms or bedrooms. Moreover, this color in combination with the right lighting can bring a subtle elegance to any room.
Fashion
In fashion, #262526 is a versatile color that can be used for clothing, accessories, and footwear. It provides a neutral backdrop for showcasing other colors and textures. A dark gray suit, for example, is a classic and timeless choice for professional settings, while #262526 can also be used for casual wear, such as t-shirts, jeans, or jackets. Its subtlety allows for easy integration into various wardrobes.