Oil
General Information about #291E12
The hexadecimal color code #291E12 represents a dark shade of brown, often referred to as 'Oil'. It is composed of 16.1% red, 11.8% green, and 7.1% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R:41, G:30, B:18. The corresponding CMYK values are C:0, M:0.27, Y:0.56, K:0.84. This color is perceived as a warm and earthy tone, evoking a sense of depth, richness, and stability. Due to its dark nature, it is best used in conjunction with lighter colors to provide adequate contrast and visual balance. The color is well suited for backgrounds, decorative accents and warm designs. It can be compared to dark chocolate and dark wood.
The hex color #291E12, often referred to as 'Oil,' presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast against both white and black backgrounds. This can make text and interactive elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend specific contrast ratios for text and non-text elements to ensure readability. #291E12 fails to meet these guidelines in most scenarios. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades or complementary colors that provide sufficient contrast, or implement features that allow users to adjust the color scheme to their preferences. Providing alternative styling options and adhering to WCAG standards are crucial for inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33261a
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast against white backgrounds while retaining a similar earthy tone.
- #403326
A desaturated brown that provides better readability in text applications and maintains a natural, understated feel.
- #ffffff
For high contrast, consider using white (#ffffff) or a light beige. This however removes the 'Oil' color characteristics.
Applications
Interior Design
The 'Oil' color, #291E12, is particularly well-suited for creating a sense of warmth and sophistication in interior design. It can be used as a wall color in studies or libraries to evoke a sense of old-world charm. Furthermore, it functions effectively as an accent color in furniture or decorative elements. The dark, muted tone complements natural materials like wood and leather, enhancing the overall ambiance of a room. The color also creates a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for bedrooms or reading nooks. Combining it with brighter colors as highlights creates balance.
Web Design Accents
In web design, #291E12 can be used sparingly to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It is best suited for backgrounds of certain website sections or as an accent color in logos or icons. However, it should be used cautiously for text due to its low contrast. When using this color on the web, ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements to meet accessibility standards. Use it for elements that are more for design purposes and less functional.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, #291E12 (Oil) can be used as a sophisticated and grounding color, especially for autumn and winter collections. It can be applied to garments like trench coats, leather boots, and woolen sweaters, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. The color pairs well with other earthy tones and can serve as a neutral base for more vibrant accent colors. Consider using it to create monochromatic styles. The color itself has a luxurious and calm appeal.