Sepia Black
General Information about Sepia Black
The hex color #28050A, often referred to as Sepia Black, is a very dark, muted shade of red-brown. It belongs to the family of dark browns and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance. The color evokes a sense of antiquity, elegance, and subtle sophistication. Its composition consists of 15.7% red, 2% green, and 3.9% blue. In the RGB color space, it leans heavily towards red, giving it its characteristic warm undertone, although the low percentage of green and blue keeps the color from appearing overtly vibrant. Sepia Black is often associated with aged photographs and historical documents, contributing to its vintage aesthetic. Its usage in modern design contexts aims to recreate a similar sense of timelessness and refined taste.
The color #28050A, also known as Sepia Black, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. Its dark nature results in extremely poor contrast against typical light-colored backgrounds like white or light gray. This lack of contrast makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to discern text or graphical elements rendered in this color. Web developers should avoid using #28050A for foreground elements like text or icons unless paired with a very light background color to ensure sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text, and 3:1 for large text, to meet WCAG AA accessibility standards. If #28050A is crucial to the design, consider providing alternative high-contrast themes or allowing users to customize the color scheme to meet their individual needs. Proper use of ARIA attributes can also help to convey information effectively to assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #38151a
A slightly lighter shade of brown, providing a touch more visibility while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #48252a
A dark reddish-brown that increases the contrast compared to pure black, making it more accessible while remaining subtle.
- #38100a
A warmer dark brown, offering slightly better contrast against light backgrounds and a richer tone.
Applications
Subtle Accents in Web Design
In web design, #28050A can be used sparingly for subtle accents, such as thin borders, dividers, or background shades in specific sections of a website to create a sophisticated and understated look. Due to its very dark nature, it's best used in combination with lighter colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Employing it for large blocks of text is discouraged due to the low contrast it provides against typical background colors.
Grounding Color in Interior Design
In interior design, #28050A can serve as a grounding color, used in small amounts to add depth and richness to a space. It is suitable for accent walls in large rooms with ample natural light or for furniture pieces like side tables or decorative objects. Pairing it with lighter and warmer hues like creams, beiges, and golds can create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Avoid using it in small, poorly lit spaces, as it can make the room feel even smaller and darker.
Sophisticated Base Color in Fashion
In fashion, #28050A can be used to create a sophisticated and edgy look. It works well as a base color for outfits, especially in fabrics like leather or velvet. It can be paired with lighter or brighter colors to create contrast and visual interest. Accessories in gold or silver can complement the dark hue and elevate the overall style. Consider using it for evening wear or statement pieces like jackets or boots.