Heavy Metal
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #283331 represents a dark shade of green-gray. It is often referred to as "Heavy Metal", suggesting a strong, industrial feel. The color is composed of 15.7% red, 20% green, and 19.2% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to RGB(40, 51, 49). It has a hue angle of 166.7 degrees, a saturation of 10.3%, and a lightness of 17.6% in the HSL color space. This color is often associated with sophistication, stability, and a sense of groundedness. It's a popular choice for designs that require a subtle yet impactful aesthetic.
The hex color #283331, also known as Heavy Metal, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Due to its relatively low luminance, achieving sufficient contrast with lighter background colors is crucial. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text to comply with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. When using #283331 for text, consider pairing it with very light shades of gray, white, or other pale hues to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Additionally, avoid using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links without providing clear visual cues, such as borders or hover effects, to enhance usability. Testing with accessibility tools is vital to confirm adequate contrast and overall accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #283331 can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or sidebars, especially for websites aiming for a modern, industrial, or tech-focused aesthetic. It pairs well with minimalist typography and clean layouts. The color is also suitable for creating subtle shadows or borders, adding depth to user interface elements without overwhelming the visual experience. Consider using it sparingly to highlight important sections or calls to action. Avoid using it for large blocks of text without careful consideration of contrast to ensure readability.
Interior Design
In interior design, #283331 can be used as an accent color in rooms to provide a grounding and sophisticated feel. It works well in spaces like home offices, living rooms, or even bedrooms. It is well suited for use on furniture, walls, or decorative elements such as pillows or vases. The color pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like copper or gold. Ensure sufficient lighting to prevent the color from making the room feel too dark.
Fashion
In fashion, #283331 is a versatile color that can be used for clothing, accessories, and footwear. It provides a neutral base that can be easily paired with other colors and patterns. Consider it for jackets, pants, or skirts, as well as accessories like bags, belts, and hats. In footwear, it can be used for boots or sneakers to give a grounding effect to an outfit. The color is suitable for both casual and formal wear, depending on the design and materials used.