Violet
General Information
Hex color #290b42, also known as a deep violet or dark purple, is a tertiary color resulting from a combination of red and blue, with a bias towards blue, creating its characteristic violet hue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 16.1% red, 4.3% green, and 25.9% blue. Its presence in the color spectrum conveys feelings of royalty, luxury, and mystery. This color family is often associated with creativity, imagination, and spirituality. In various cultures, violet hues can also represent wisdom and independence. This color is less common in nature, which contributes to its perceived uniqueness and appeal in design and art.
The hex color #290b42, a deep violet, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its low luminance (darkness) means it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability. For text, it's crucial to use light colors like white or very pale yellows as foreground against this violet background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #290b42 for interactive elements like buttons, ensure sufficient visual cues are provided to indicate the interactive state. Avoid using it alongside other dark or muted colors, as this can lead to a lack of clear visual distinction, which is especially problematic for users with visual impairments. Thoughtful consideration of color contrast is vital for creating an inclusive and accessible design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #702963
A lighter violet that offers better readability and contrast when used as a background or for text.
- #800080
A more vibrant purple that can be used to add a pop of color while maintaining a degree of sophistication.
- #e6e6fa
A softer lavender that provides a calming and gentle alternative to the deep violet.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #290b42 can be used to create a sophisticated and luxurious feel, especially for brands in the beauty, fashion, or technology sectors. It can serve as an accent color to highlight key elements or as a background for sections conveying premium content. Use with restraint to avoid overwhelming the user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, this deep violet adds a touch of drama and elegance. It's suitable for creating accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, or as a color for decorative elements like cushions and throws. Paired with metallics, it can create a lavish and inviting space. It's important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark.
Fashion
In fashion, #290b42 evokes feelings of mystery and sophistication. It can be used in evening wear, accessories, or as a statement color in casual outfits. Pairing it with complementary colors like gold or lighter shades of purple can create striking and fashionable combinations. The rich hue makes it suitable for creating elegant and refined looks.