Paua
General Information about Paua (#290066)
The hex color #290066, also known as Paua, is a deep, dark shade of purple that evokes feelings of mystery, luxury, and sophistication. It belongs to the purple color family and has low saturation and brightness. This color is often associated with royalty, magic, and creativity. In terms of color theory, #290066 is created by mixing small amounts of red and blue light, resulting in a color that sits between the two on the color spectrum. Due to its darkness, it's important to use #290066 carefully in design to ensure readability and visual balance. It can create an elegant effect if paired with lighter colors. Paua is a popular choice for creating a mood of introspection.
The hex color #290066, also known as Paua, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its dark hue results in a low luminance value, which significantly impacts text legibility. When using #290066 as a background color, it is imperative to pair it with a light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text, as per WCAG guidelines. For larger text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), a contrast ratio of 3:1 is acceptable. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help verify compliance. Avoid using #290066 for interactive elements or important information without careful attention to contrast, as this can create a poor user experience, especially for users with visual impairments. Adequate spacing and font sizing further contribute to readability against this dark background.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast when used as a background color with white text.
A desaturated version of Paua, offering a more muted and subtle aesthetic.
A dark color which can be used with lighter accents and is still in the neighborhood of the original Paua tone.
Applications
Website Design
In website design, Paua can be used to create a sophisticated and luxurious feel. It works well for headers, footers, or as an accent color in a minimalist design. Its depth adds a sense of mystery and elegance. However, due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly and balanced with lighter elements to maintain readability and visual appeal. Consider pairing it with complementary colors like gold or lavender for a visually striking effect. For example, you could use #290066 as the background color for a website's navigation bar, with white or light gold text for the menu items.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Paua evokes a sense of royalty and sophistication. It can be used in evening wear, accessories, or as a statement color in a bold outfit. Its richness complements jewel tones and metallic accents. Consider incorporating Paua into a velvet dress or a silk scarf for a luxurious touch. When using it in smaller doses, such as jewelry or handbags, it can add a pop of color to a more neutral ensemble. It's a versatile color that can transition from formal events to more casual settings.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Paua can infuse a space with an air of mystery and opulence. Consider utilizing it as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to establish a sense of depth and coziness. Alternatively, incorporating it through textiles like velvet curtains or throw pillows can introduce a tactile dimension. Due to its intensity, it's advisable to temper it with lighter shades of gray, white, or beige to prevent the room from feeling too dark and imposing. Accents such as gold or silver picture frames or decorative objects can further enhance the space's overall elegance.