Oil
General Information about #281C15
The hexadecimal color code #281C15 represents a dark, muted shade of brown, often described as "Oil." It is composed of 15.7% red, 11% green, and 8.2% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R:40, G:28, B:21. The CMYK values are C:0, M:0.3, Y:0.48, K:0.84, indicating a high level of black. This color falls within the earthy tones, evoking feelings of warmth, stability, and naturalness. Its subdued nature makes it versatile for various applications, from design to fashion. The color's darkness implies sophistication and can be used to create a sense of depth and richness in visual compositions. It is considered a neutral color, capable of complementing a wide range of other colors.
The hex color #281C15, often referred to as "Oil," presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its low luminance value (very dark) means it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text to ensure 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 to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Using tools to check contrast ratios is crucial to verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color to convey important information solely through color, as colorblind users may not be able to perceive the distinction. Consider providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, to enhance accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33261e
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used for backgrounds or text, offering a high degree of accessibility.
- #f5f5dc
A light beige color that provides a soft contrast against darker elements, improving readability.
Applications
Sophisticated Web Design
In web design, #281C15 can be utilized for creating sophisticated and elegant website themes, often seen in luxury brands or portfolios. It works exceptionally well as a background color for sections featuring light-colored text or imagery, evoking a sense of depth and richness. The color can be applied to website headers, footers, or as a subtle accent color to highlight specific elements, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing user experience. However, it is crucial to pair it with appropriate contrasting colors to maintain accessibility standards.
Warm Interior Spaces
Within interior design, #281C15 lends itself to creating warm and inviting spaces, particularly in living rooms or studies. It can be used as a wall color to establish a cozy atmosphere or as an accent color in furniture or decorative elements. When paired with natural materials like wood and leather, the color enhances a sense of groundedness and elegance. It also complements metallic accents, such as gold or bronze, adding a touch of luxury and refinement to the overall design scheme. Consideration of lighting is important to prevent the color from making the space feel too dark.
Classic Fashion Appareal
In fashion, the hex color #281C15 serves as an excellent choice for creating garments with a classic and understated aesthetic. It is commonly used for creating sophisticated evening wear or casual garments. This particular color serves as a timeless choice for creating clothing pieces that exude elegance and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter neutral shades such as beige, cream or lighter shades of gray.