Cocoa Brown
General Information about Cocoa Brown
The hex color #2A181F, also known as Cocoa Brown, is a dark, muted shade of brown. It is composed of 16.47% red, 9.41% green, and 12.16% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:42, G:24, and B:31. Its CMYK values are C:0, M:0.43, Y:0.26, K:0.84. Cocoa Brown typically evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and earthiness. It is often associated with natural elements, stability, and sophistication. This color is frequently used in design contexts to create a sense of richness and understated elegance. It is a versatile color that can be used in various applications, including web design, interior design, and fashion, to convey a sense of timelessness and reliability. Its subtle nature makes it a suitable choice for backgrounds, accents, and branding elements.
The hex color #2A181F, a deep cocoa brown, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a text color. Its low luminance value means it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Using #2A181F as a background color necessitates a very light foreground color to meet these standards. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in verifying sufficient contrast. In cases where contrast cannot be adequately achieved, it is advisable to choose alternative colors or adjust the text size and weight to improve readability. Ensure interactive elements using this color have sufficient visual cues for users to identify their state and function.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4E342E
A lighter brown that offers better contrast when used as a background or text color.
- #333333
A neutral gray that works well as a background color for text and provides a more subtle contrast.
- #3E2723
A warmer brown, similar to cocoa brown, but with a higher luminance value which improves readability.
Applications
Web Design
Cocoa Brown (#2A181F) can evoke a sense of warmth and sophistication in web design. It works exceptionally well in creating backgrounds or accents for websites related to coffee, chocolate, or artisanal goods. When paired with lighter, contrasting colors like creams or beiges, it can establish a classic and elegant aesthetic. It's crucial to use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user interface. Additionally, this color can be effectively incorporated into branding materials for companies aiming to project an image of reliability and earthiness. Consider using it for headers, footers, or subtle design elements to provide a refined visual experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cocoa Brown (#2A181F) can be utilized to add depth and richness to a room. It works best as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items. Combining it with lighter shades of brown, beige, or even soft blues can create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. For instance, a Cocoa Brown accent wall in a living room can serve as a backdrop for lighter-colored sofas and artwork. Furthermore, incorporating this color into textiles such as cushions, curtains, or rugs can subtly enhance the overall warmth and comfort of the space. It's important to balance it with adequate lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or enclosed.
Fashion
Cocoa Brown (#2A181F) is frequently used in fashion to create a grounding and sophisticated look. It's particularly popular in autumn and winter collections for outerwear, knitwear, and accessories. This color can be seamlessly integrated into various styles, from casual to formal, depending on the fabric and design. A Cocoa Brown leather jacket, for example, can be paired with jeans for a relaxed yet stylish outfit, while a Cocoa Brown dress can be accessorized with gold jewelry for a more elegant appearance. Combining it with complementary colors such as teal or mustard yellow can create a striking and fashionable ensemble. The versatility of Cocoa Brown makes it a timeless choice in the world of fashion.