Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay (#262A3C)
The hex color #262A3C, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade of gray with subtle blue undertones. It belongs to the family of cool grays, offering a sophisticated and understated aesthetic. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 15.29% red, 16.47% green, and 23.53% blue. In the CMYK color model, its approximate composition is 35% cyan, 30% magenta, 0% yellow, and 76% black. This color is often associated with elegance, calmness, and stability. It is frequently used in design contexts where a sense of sophistication and neutrality is desired. The color name 'Ebony Clay' evokes images of natural materials and earthy tones, further reinforcing its connection to a sense of groundedness and refinement.
The hex color #262A3C, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its low luminance value results in a low contrast ratio against a standard white background. This can make text difficult to read for users with visual impairments or those viewing the content on low-quality screens. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use this color with lighter text colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 as recommended by WCAG guidelines. When using this color for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues beyond color alone are present, such as borders or icons. For graphical elements, consider adding patterns or textures to differentiate areas for users who may have difficulty distinguishing colors. Providing alternative color schemes that offer higher contrast is also a good practice.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
In web design, Ebony Clay can be employed for website headers and footers to establish a sophisticated and calming visual impression. Its muted tone ensures that primary content remains the focus while lending a touch of elegance. This color is particularly effective when paired with minimalist design principles, allowing for ample white space and strategic use of contrasting accent colors to draw attention to key elements. In user interface design, it could be used for the sidebar navigation. However, proper attention should be given to the contrast ratios of text and interactive elements against the dark background.
Interior Design: Calming Interiors
Within interior design, Ebony Clay can be applied to create serene and stylish environments. This color serves as a grounding force, particularly in bedrooms or living rooms, fostering a sense of tranquility. To prevent the space from feeling too dark, incorporate lighter accent colors through furniture, textiles, and artwork. Natural materials like wood and stone complement Ebony Clay beautifully, adding warmth and texture to the overall design scheme. Consider using this color as a base for walls or larger furniture pieces, allowing brighter elements to pop and create visual interest.
Fashion: Understated Elegance
In the realm of fashion, Ebony Clay can serve as a versatile and understated base for creating refined and modern ensembles. The color is suitable for garments such as jackets, trousers, and skirts, and its neutrality allows it to be easily paired with a wide range of colors and textures. This shade particularly complements metallic accents, such as silver or gold jewelry, adding a touch of glamour. For a more casual look, pair it with denim or earthy tones. The color's inherent sophistication makes it a great choice for both professional and social settings.