Sepia Black
General Information about #280012
The hexadecimal color code #280012, often referred to as Sepia Black, is a very dark, muted shade of magenta. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 15.69% red, 0% green, and 7.06% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 100% magenta, 55% yellow, and 84% black. This color is rarely used in web design or other creative fields due to its low visibility and limited versatility. It may be used as an accent color to create a sophisticated or mysterious atmosphere, but it requires careful consideration of contrast and accessibility. The color's darkness and muted nature make it challenging to work with, often requiring a very light color to create contrast. The term 'Sepia Black' suggests a connection to vintage or aged aesthetics, although it is not a traditional sepia tone. Its main attribute is to create shadows.
The hex color #280012, also known as Sepia Black, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. Its very low lightness value makes it unsuitable for text or interactive elements against a white or light background. Users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, would struggle to discern content rendered in this color. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use #280012 sparingly and pair it with significantly lighter colors that provide sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to comply with WCAG guidelines. Consider using online contrast checkers to verify the contrast ratio between #280012 and any foreground or background colors. Providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or text labels, can further enhance accessibility for users who may have difficulty perceiving color differences. For example, avoid using #280012 as the sole indicator of a status change or required field, as users who cannot distinguish it from the background may miss critical information. When using it on background, it is recomended to avoid usage of small or complex elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #330019
A slightly lighter shade that retains the dark, muted tone but offers improved contrast against light backgrounds.
- #362204
A dark brown that provides a more natural and versatile alternative, particularly in designs aiming for an earthy or vintage feel.
- #301934
A dark purple shade that is similar to the provided hex, but gives more space for creativity.
Applications
Web Design and Branding
In web design, #280012 can serve as an accent color to evoke a sense of sophistication and mystery. It is especially effective when used in small doses for decorative elements such as borders, dividers, or hover effects. However, due to its low visibility, it should not be employed for essential text or interactive components. In branding, it can communicate luxury, exclusivity, or a gothic aesthetic, depending on the surrounding color palette and design elements. When combined with lighter shades of gold or silver, it can create a feeling of opulence and elegance. For artistic projects, this dark sepia black can act as a grounding element, providing depth and contrast to brighter, more vibrant hues. In user interfaces, it can be useful for designing dark themes to reduce eye strain in low-light environments, but careful consideration of contrast ratios is essential to maintain readability and usability.
Fashion and Interior Design
In the realm of fashion, #280012 can be used to create elegant and mysterious clothing designs. It is best suited for evening wear, formal attire, or statement pieces that demand attention. This color can also be incorporated into accessories such as belts, shoes, or handbags to add a touch of sophistication to an outfit. When combined with lighter or contrasting colors, it can create visually stunning ensembles that are both stylish and timeless. Moreover, #280012 can be used in the creation of unique makeup looks, such as smoky eyes or bold lip colors, to enhance the wearer's natural beauty. In interior design, #280012 is perfectly applicable for accent walls, furniture, or decorative items. Its dark and moody tone can add a sense of drama and sophistication to any room, especially when paired with lighter or more neutral colors. For example, it could be used on a velvet sofa in a living room or as the backdrop for a gallery wall in a dining room.
Beauty
In the beauty industry, the color #280012 is very niche. It is used to create dark and gothic makeup looks. As eye shadow on the eyelid or as eyeliner it can create a dark aesthetic for photoshoots. In combination with lighter shades it can create a contrast to appear more vibrant.