Steel Gray
General Information about #282138
The hexadecimal color code #282138 represents a dark shade of gray, often referred to as Steel Gray. It is composed of 15.69% red, 12.94% green, and 21.96% blue. In the RGB color model, it has the values (40, 33, 56). The corresponding CMYK color code is (29, 41, 0, 78). Steel Gray is commonly associated with sophistication, neutrality, and modernity. It is frequently used in various design applications due to its versatility and ability to blend well with other colors. Its dark tone also makes it suitable for backgrounds and elements that need to recede into the background.
The hex color #282138, also known as Steel Gray, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Its low lightness value (relatively dark) means that sufficient contrast is crucial 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 (14pt bold or 18pt regular). When using #282138, ensure that any foreground text or interactive elements have a high enough contrast ratio. Lighter colors, such as shades of white, light gray, or pastel colors, may work well as foreground options. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help verify compliance. Consider offering alternative color schemes to accommodate users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter gray that provides better contrast, making it more accessible for text and UI elements.
- #2f4f4f
A neutral color which is suited for backgrounds and large surfaces.
- #36454f
A dark gray color that offers a modern and sophisticated look, similar to Steel Gray but with its own unique character.
Applications
Website Backgrounds and UI Design
Steel Gray (#282138) can be utilized as a primary background color for websites focusing on technology, security, or corporate professionalism. Its subdued nature helps to create a sense of trust and stability. In UI design, it works well for sidebars, navigation menus, and footers, providing a clean and distraction-free environment. Complementary colors such as light blues or greens can be used for accents to draw attention to key elements. The color is often chosen to achieve a serious look.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, Steel Gray (#282138) is a versatile and sophisticated color choice, often used in professional attire, outerwear, and accessories. It exudes a sense of elegance and can be paired with a variety of colors, from vibrant hues to muted tones. The color is well suited for creating a serious and sophisticated look. In interior design, Steel Gray can be employed for walls, furniture, or accent pieces to create a modern and understated aesthetic. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents.
Graphic Design and Branding
In graphic design, Steel Gray (#282138) can be employed to create a sense of sleekness and refinement in logos, branding materials, and marketing collateral. Its dark and neutral tone conveys professionalism and reliability. The color can be paired with lighter shades of gray or contrasting colors to create visually appealing and balanced designs. Furthermore, Steel Gray works well for text and typography, especially when used against a lighter background, ensuring readability and clarity. It is often used for data visualization.