Black Olive
General Information about Black Olive
The hex color code #262D17, also known as Black Olive, is a dark shade of green-brown. It is composed of 15.29% red, 17.65% green, and 9.02% blue. In the RGB color model, this corresponds to RGB values of 38, 45, and 23 respectively. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 15.56% cyan, 0% magenta, 48.89% yellow, and 82.35% black. Its hue angle is 77.1 degrees, its saturation is 34.6% and its lightness is 13.3%. Black Olive evokes feelings of nature, earthiness, and tranquility. It is often associated with sophistication and subtlety due to its muted and dark nature. The color is often used in designs that require a calm and stable color for the background.
The color #262D17, also known as Black Olive, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in a low contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds, potentially making text or elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, especially for web content, it's crucial to pair this color with significantly lighter text colors, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 as recommended by WCAG guidelines. Larger text sizes may tolerate slightly lower contrast ratios. Additionally, providing alternative visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or icons, can further improve accessibility for all users. Consider using contrast checking tools during the design process to verify compliance with accessibility standards. For users with color blindness, the reliance on this particular shade should be minimized, or alternative color schemes should be provided.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3a452e
A slightly lighter shade of green can offer better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray provides a neutral alternative that works well with many color schemes.
- #403527
This muted brown color can provide a similar earthy tone, with a better contrast ratio than the olive.
Applications
Website Backgrounds and Accents
Black Olive is an excellent choice for backgrounds or accents in websites aiming for a natural or earthy feel. Its muted tone doesn't distract from the content, making it suitable for blogs, portfolios, or websites related to nature, gardening, or sustainable living. The color evokes a sense of calm and stability, making it appropriate for designs that prioritize user experience and readability. Consider pairing it with lighter, contrasting colors for text and interactive elements to ensure optimal accessibility. It can be used to highlight call-to-action buttons, providing a subtle sense of action.
Fashion Design
This color can be incorporated into fashion design for creating garments or accessories that exude sophistication and understated elegance. It works well for items like jackets, skirts, or handbags, providing a versatile neutral base that can be paired with various colors and textures. It can also be used as a complementary color in prints, adding depth and interest to the overall design. The subtle and refined nature of Black Olive makes it a timeless and enduring choice for fashion designers seeking to create high-quality and fashionable garments.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Olive can be used to create a calming and grounding atmosphere in spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. It's a great color for walls, furniture, or accent pieces, providing a neutral backdrop that allows other elements in the room to stand out. It can be paired with natural materials like wood, stone, or linen to enhance the earthy and organic feel of the space. It's a versatile choice that can be adapted to various styles, from minimalist to rustic, adding depth and character to any interior space.