Sepia Black
General Information
The hex color code #280404, often referred to as Sepia Black, is a very dark shade of red-brown. It belongs to the family of earthy tones and evokes feelings of warmth, antiquity, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #280404 is composed of 15.69% red, 1.57% green, and 1.57% blue. This composition results in a color that is heavily skewed towards the red spectrum, giving it its characteristic deep, muted tone. Colors similar to #280404 are often associated with vintage aesthetics, rustic themes, and a sense of understated elegance. Due to its dark nature, it's crucial to consider its contrast with other colors when using it in design.
The hex color #280404, also known as Sepia Black, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. With such a dark shade, using it as a background color necessitates very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #280404, it is crucial to test the contrast ratio with any chosen text color to avoid making content inaccessible to users with visual impairments. Designers should also avoid using this color for interactive elements without clear visual cues, as users may struggle to identify them. Thoughtful consideration of color combinations and contrast is essential to ensure an inclusive and accessible user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #331a00
A slightly lighter shade of brown that offers better contrast and readability compared to #280404.
- #400000
A deep red that can provide a richer and more accessible alternative while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #3d0c02
A warmer brown tone that can add a touch of sophistication while improving visibility.
Applications
Subtle Accents in Web Design
In web development, #280404 can be used sparingly for elements like thin borders or subtle background accents to add depth without overwhelming the user interface. For instance, it can define the edges of a dark-themed navigation menu or create a sophisticated footer. Due to its darkness, it's best paired with light, high-contrast text to ensure readability and accessibility. Avoid using it as the primary background color for large sections of text, as this can strain the eyes and reduce user engagement. Careful consideration of contrast ratios is essential to meet accessibility standards.
Accent Walls in Interior Design
In interior design, #280404 can be employed to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere in smaller spaces like a study or reading nook. It works well as an accent wall color, especially when complemented by lighter furniture and accessories to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Consider using it for leather upholstery or dark wood finishes to add a touch of elegance. Ensure sufficient lighting is incorporated to balance the depth of the color and maintain a welcoming ambiance. Metallic accents such as gold or copper can enhance the richness of #280404, creating a luxurious feel.
Foundation Color in Fashion
In fashion, #280404 can serve as a grounding color in outfits, providing a sophisticated and understated base for bolder statement pieces. It is suitable for leather accessories such as belts, bags, or boots, adding a touch of rugged elegance to any look. For evening wear, consider incorporating it into velvet textures for a luxurious and dramatic effect. When wearing #280404, balance the darkness with lighter-colored clothing or accessories to prevent the outfit from appearing too somber. It pairs well with warm neutrals, jewel tones, or metallics.