Outer Space
General Information
The hex color #263340, also known as Outer Space, is a dark, muted shade of blue-gray. It evokes a sense of sophistication, mystery, and calm. In the RGB color model, #263340 is composed of 15.3% red, 20% green, and 25.1% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 39% cyan, 20% magenta, 0% yellow, and 74.9% black. This color is often used to create a sense of depth and seriousness in designs. Its name, "Outer Space", alludes to the vastness and darkness of the cosmos, further contributing to its perceived mystique. It is a versatile color that can be used in a variety of applications, from web design to interior design, and pairs well with a wide range of other colors.
The hex color #263340, also known as Outer Space, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. For WCAG AAA, even higher contrast ratios are needed. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify compliance. Designers and developers should avoid pairing #263340 with mid-tone or dark colors as text, as this would render the content illegible for many users, especially those with visual impairments. Careful consideration of text size and weight is also necessary to optimize readability. Proper use of ARIA attributes can further enhance accessibility for assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #36454f
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast when used with darker text, while still maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1c2833
A darker shade that can be used for backgrounds when paired with very light text, providing a strong visual contrast.
- #4a5759
A muted grey that can be used for text or backgrounds, providing a soft and subtle contrast.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #263340 can be used to create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic, particularly for websites in the technology, finance, or corporate sectors. It works well as a background color for headers or footers, and can be paired with lighter accent colors like white or light gray to create a professional look. The color can also be utilized for navigation menus or call-to-action buttons, but always keeping accessibility in mind and ensuring sufficient contrast with the text. The use of #263340 adds a sense of depth and richness to the overall design, creating a memorable user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #263340 can serve as a grounding color for walls or furniture, creating a calming and elegant space. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or copper. The color is suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices, where a sense of tranquility is desired. It also works well in commercial spaces, such as lobbies or waiting areas, where it can create a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere. The use of #263340 adds depth and character to the room, and when complemented with lighter colors, an harmonious result can be achieved.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, #263340 exudes sophistication and versatility, lending itself well to both casual and formal wear. As a dominant color, it crafts an aura of understated elegance, ideally suited for garments like tailored suits, chic dresses, or refined outerwear. Complementing the shade with accents of lighter tones or metallic hues elevates its inherent allure, yielding a visually striking ensemble. Beyond attire, this hue finds application in accessories like handbags, footwear, or scarves, affording a touch of sophistication to any attire. Its timeless appeal makes it an indispensable component in any discerning wardrobe, imparting a sense of refined style and subtle confidence.