Oil
General Information about #291E14
The hex color #291E14, often referred to as "Oil," is a very dark shade of brown. It belongs to the brown color family, known for conveying feelings of stability, warmth, and earthiness. In the RGB color model, #291E14 consists of 16.08% red, 11.76% green, and 7.84% blue. When converted to the CMYK color model, it comprises 0% cyan, 27% magenta, 51% yellow, and 84% black. This composition indicates that the color is primarily influenced by yellow and black pigments. Perceptually, #291E14 is associated with natural elements, making it a popular choice for designs aiming to evoke a sense of authenticity, reliability, and understated elegance. Its muted nature makes it versatile for various applications, including backgrounds, text accents, and branding.
The hex color #291E14, also known as Oil, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. Its dark nature means that it requires careful consideration when used for text or interactive elements. To ensure readability, it's crucial to pair this color with a very light background, such as white (#FFFFFF) or a pale yellow. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to comply with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. For AAA compliance, even higher contrast ratios are necessary. Avoid using #291E14 for crucial UI elements if sufficient contrast cannot be achieved. Also, consider users with color vision deficiencies. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify the suitability of color pairings.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of brown that still offers a sense of warmth and richness but provides better contrast against light backgrounds.
A neutral gray-brown that can be used as a more subtle alternative for backgrounds or secondary elements.
A dark, desaturated green that can evoke a similar natural feel while offering better contrast in some contexts.
Applications
Web Design and Branding
In web design, #291E14 can be effectively used to create a sophisticated and grounding aesthetic. It's well-suited for website backgrounds, particularly in industries aiming to convey a sense of tradition, such as artisanal goods or heritage brands. When used sparingly as a primary text color, ensure high contrast with a light background for readability. As a secondary accent color, it can add depth and richness to layouts. For branding, consider using it to evoke feelings of stability, reliability, and natural elegance, especially when combined with earthy tones and organic textures. The color #291E14 is great for website footers or headers, providing a grounding effect.
Interior Design
In interior design, #291E14 can be utilized to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It works exceptionally well as an accent wall color in living rooms or studies, adding a touch of sophistication. Consider pairing it with lighter, neutral colors like beige or cream to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Furniture made from natural materials, such as wood or leather, complements this color beautifully. Accessorize with metallic accents like gold or bronze to enhance the richness of the palette. Also, #291E14 can create a relaxing and soothing effect in bedrooms when combined with soft textiles.
Fashion
In fashion, #291E14 can be incorporated into outfits to create a sophisticated and understated look. It works as a great base color for creating fall or winter looks, providing a neutral backdrop for accent pieces and accessories. Pair this color with warm colors such as orange and red for an eye-catching design, especially during fall. The color adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to any outfit. It can be used for outwear, such as jackets or coats, or as a base for dresses and jumpsuits. #291E14 also complements earth tone accessories such as wooden watches or bracelets.