Black Olive
General Information about Black Olive (#283017)
The hex color #283017, also known as Black Olive, is a dark, muted shade of green. It belongs to the family of dark earth tones and evokes a sense of nature, sophistication, and understated elegance. This color is created by combining small amounts of red, green and blue light. In the RGB color model, it consists of 15.69% red, 18.82% green, and 9.02% blue. Because of the low lightness, it is not suited as text color on white background. It's often used in designs aiming for a subtle, natural feel and pairs well with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and visual balance.
The hex color #283017 presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. With such a dark shade, it is imperative to use very light text colors on backgrounds using this hex to ensure sufficient contrast, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Insufficient contrast can make content unreadable for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, careful consideration and testing are crucial when employing this color in user interfaces or web design to guarantee an inclusive and accessible experience for all users. Using tools to check contrast ratios is highly advisable during the design process.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
In web design, this color can be used for background elements, especially in minimalist themes where a dark, subtle tone is desired. It pairs well with lighter text colors to create a sophisticated and understated look. Furthermore, it can be employed in website footers or headers to provide a grounding visual element that doesn't distract from the main content.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Olive can be used as an accent color in rooms with natural wood elements and lots of natural light. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative items to create a sophisticated and nature-inspired atmosphere. This color works particularly well in studies, living rooms, and bedrooms, adding a touch of understated elegance.
Branding Color
This color can be used in branding for companies that want to convey a sense of reliability and earthiness. It's well suited to brands that focus on organic products, environmental sustainability, or natural resources. Its dark, muted tone allows for subtle incorporation into logos, packaging, and marketing materials.