Sepia Black
About Sepia Black
The hexadecimal color code #280005 represents a very dark shade of red, often described as 'Sepia Black' due to its resemblance to the dark, brownish-black tones found in sepia-toned photographs. It falls within the range of colors that are perceived as dark and muted. This color is composed of 15.7% red, 0% green, and 2% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to relatively low values for all three primary colors, resulting in its dark appearance. Due to its composition, this color will not be vibrant and can be used as background in combination with brighter fonts. The human eye perceives it as a color lacking intensity, creating an undertstated feeling.
The color #280005, also known as Sepia Black, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low lightness value (very close to black) results in poor contrast against most backgrounds, including white. This makes it difficult to read text or distinguish elements when this color is used for foreground elements against a light background, or vice versa. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. To improve accessibility, it is strongly advised to use much lighter colors for text or interactive elements when paired with #280005. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the contrast ratio and suggest alternative colors that meet accessibility standards. Avoid using this color for essential UI components or text without careful consideration of its impact on users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #331a00
A slightly lighter shade of brown that offers a subtle warmth without being overly dark, providing better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #400010
A deep burgundy that retains some of the richness while improving readability and providing a slightly brighter alternative.
- #30120a
A dark chocolate color that provides a similar deep tone but offers slightly better contrast than Sepia Black
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
In web design, #280005 can be used sparingly as an accent color for borders or decorative elements, provided it's paired with high-contrast text and backgrounds. Avoid using it for crucial interactive elements or large blocks of text due to its low visibility. Consider using it for dark mode themes where subtle color variations are desired, but always ensure sufficient contrast for readability. For branding, it can evoke a sense of sophistication and exclusivity when used judiciously in logos or website headers.
High Fashion Design
In fashion, Sepia Black can be used in luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk to create elegant and mysterious garments. It's suitable for evening wear or accessories, providing a dark and rich base color. It can also be used in leather goods or shoes to add a touch of sophistication. However, due to its dark nature, it's important to balance it with lighter colors or textures to prevent the outfit from appearing too somber.
Interior Design Accent
For interior design, #280005 can be used as an accent color in small doses to add depth and richness to a space. It's suitable for painting a single accent wall or for upholstery on furniture in a well-lit room. Consider pairing it with lighter colors like beige or cream to create a balanced contrast. It can also be used in decorative items like vases or picture frames to add a touch of elegance. Avoid using it for large areas or in dimly lit rooms, as it can make the space feel smaller and darker.