Mallard
General Information about Mallard (#273C1B)
The hex color #273C1B, often referred to as 'Mallard', is a dark, muted shade of green. It belongs to the green color family but has a significant presence of both blue and red, which creates its unique, earthy tone. In the RGB color model, it consists of 15.29% red, 23.53% green, and 10.59% blue. Its CMYK values are 35% cyan, 0% magenta, 55% yellow, and 76% black. The low saturation gives it a subtle, natural appearance, reminiscent of foliage or shaded areas in nature. This color is generally associated with calmness, nature, and stability. It’s commonly used in designs seeking to evoke a sense of grounding and connection to the environment.
The color #273C1B, also known as Mallard, presents specific accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Its low luminance value of 0.03 means it offers very little contrast against other dark colors, making it difficult for users with low vision to distinguish elements on the screen. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure accessibility, it is recommended to pair #273C1B with much lighter colors. White (#FFFFFF) would offer a high contrast ratio, but softer options such as light yellows or greens could also be considered. Using contrast checker tools is highly advised to confirm adequate contrast ratios and readability for all users, including those with visual impairments or color vision deficiencies.
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Applications
Web Design
In web design, Mallard (#273C1B) can be used to create a nature-inspired or earthy aesthetic. It could be applied to website headers, footers, or sidebars to provide a subtle yet grounding visual element. Given its dark nature, it functions best when paired with lighter text colors for readability. Consider using it for interactive elements like buttons or links, providing a visual cue upon hover or click. The color’s association with nature could also be beneficial for websites related to environmental organizations, gardening, or outdoor activities, enhancing the overall theme and user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Mallard (#273C1B) can introduce a calming and organic feel to spaces. It works particularly well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, complementing wooden furniture and natural textures. It can also be used in smaller doses, such as for cushions, curtains, or decorative items, to add depth and richness to the room. Because it is a dark color, it pairs well with brighter hues like beige, cream, or light yellow to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Incorporating natural light and plants can further enhance the connection to nature that this color evokes.
Fashion
In fashion, Mallard (#273C1B) is a sophisticated color choice for creating understated and elegant outfits. It can be used for dresses, skirts, or pants, often paired with neutral tops or accessories to create a balanced and versatile look. It's an excellent choice for autumn and winter wardrobes, as it complements seasonal palettes well. In menswear, it could be used for sweaters, jackets, or even as a subtle accent in ties or scarves. The color exudes a sense of refinement and can be particularly effective in creating a timeless and sophisticated style.