Sepia Black
General Information about Sepia Black (#280300)
The hex color code #280300 represents a very dark shade of brown, often referred to as Sepia Black. It's composed of 15.7% red, 1.2% green, and 0% blue. In the RGB color space, it's located very close to the black end of the spectrum. This color is perceived as warm due to the dominance of red undertones. In terms of light reflectance, #280300 has an extremely low luminance value, making it appear almost black to the human eye. This color evokes feelings of antiquity, vintage aesthetics, and subdued elegance. It is frequently associated with sepia-toned photographs and historical documents. Its chromaticity coordinates place it in the reddish-brown region of the CIE color space. In the CMYK color model, it translates to approximately 0% cyan, 92% magenta, 100% yellow, and 84% black.
The color #280300, also known as Sepia Black, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very low luminance (darkness) results in extremely poor contrast against white or light-colored backgrounds, making text and other visual elements difficult or impossible to discern. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Sepia Black falls far short of these requirements. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair #280300 with much lighter colors that provide sufficient contrast. Avoid using it for critical visual elements such as text, icons, or interactive controls unless a high-contrast alternative is provided. Consider increasing the font size or using bold text to slightly improve readability but always test with assistive technologies. Providing alternative color schemes is highly recommended. Moreover, users with color vision deficiencies may struggle to distinguish #280300 from other dark colors, further exacerbating accessibility issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of brown, #330000 provides a marginally better contrast ratio while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
#380000 offers a small increase in brightness and contrast over #280300 while retaining the dark, sepia-toned feel.
For improved accessibility consider a much lighter color like #A64A2A that still keeps the warmth of the original sepia, but offers significantly better contrast.
Applications
Vintage Web Design
In web design, Sepia Black can be used sparingly as a background color for specific sections to create a vintage or antique feel. However, it is essential to ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements, such as text and icons. It might be suitable for headers or decorative elements, but avoid using it for large blocks of text or interactive components. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of beige or cream to maintain readability. Employ accessibility testing tools to verify that the color combination meets WCAG guidelines. Remember that a background image with a sepia tone might be a better choice for conveying the vintage feeling without impacting text readability. Always prioritize user experience and accessibility over purely aesthetic considerations.
Classic Fashion
In fashion, Sepia Black can evoke feelings of sophistication and timelessness. It can be incorporated into garments such as dresses, suits, and outerwear to create a classic and elegant look. Sepia Black pairs well with other neutral colors like cream, beige, and gray, as well as with richer jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue. Consider using it in accessories such as belts, shoes, and handbags to add a touch of understated luxury to an outfit. The color's depth and richness make it suitable for evening wear and formal occasions. Sepia Black also lends itself well to textured fabrics like velvet, suede, and leather, enhancing its tactile appeal.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #280300 can be used as an accent color to create a cozy and warm atmosphere. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accessories to add depth and sophistication to a space. When using #280300, consider the lighting of the room. A lighter color might be needed if there is lack of natural light. Also consider painting only one wall in #280300 and keep the other walls with lighter tones to get an interesting contrast. Combining it with natural elements such as wood and stone can enhance the overall aesthetic. It's important to balance the darkness of Sepia Black with brighter elements to avoid overwhelming the room. Sepia Black is a good choice for creating a serene atmosphere in a reading nook or home office. Consider accents like gold or brass to make it more luxurious.