Oil
General Information
The hex color #281B14, often referred to as "Oil," is a dark, muted shade of brown. It belongs to the family of earthy colors, evoking feelings of warmth, richness, and grounding. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.1% red, 10.6% green, and 7.8% blue. Its subdued nature makes it versatile for various applications where a subtle, sophisticated tone is desired. Oil provides a natural, understated elegance. It is a color that brings a sense of earthiness to different forms of art and design, suitable for creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
The hex color #281B14, also known as Oil, has very low contrast with white text, resulting in poor readability. The contrast ratio is approximately 2.1:1, far below the WCAG recommended minimum of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color is not suitable for text or important interactive elements against a white background. When used as a background color, ensure foreground elements have sufficient contrast. For better accessibility, lighten the color significantly or pair it with darker text colors like black or very dark grays. Consider using color contrast checkers to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, this color can be used for background accents, borders, or subtle dividers where a dark, earthy tone is desired. It can add depth to a website without being overly distracting. Due to its low contrast, avoid using it for text or interactive elements. It is well suited for vintage or rustic themed designs where the darker tone complements the overall aesthetic. Consider pairing it with lighter, contrasting colors to highlight key areas and improve user experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Oil can be used as a wall color in studies or libraries to create a warm, cozy atmosphere. It pairs well with natural wood tones, leather furniture, and brass accents. It can also be used for smaller decorative elements such as picture frames or vases. It is important to balance the darkness of the color with ample lighting to prevent the room from feeling too closed in. This color is perfect to enrich the space and create the feeling of warmth.
Fashion Accessory Color
In fashion, Oil can be used as an accent color in clothing or accessories. For example, it can be used for leather belts, boots, or handbags. Its deep tone complements neutral colors like beige, gray, and white. It can also be used as a base color for patterns or prints. This color choice creates a grounded look.