Baltic Sea
General Information about #2A2A2D
The hex color #2A2A2D, often referred to as 'Baltic Sea', is a dark, muted shade of gray. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.47% red, 16.47% green, and 17.65% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.07 cyan, 0.07 magenta, 0.00 yellow, and 0.82 black, indicating that it's primarily based on black with minimal color components. This color evokes a sense of sophistication, depth, and understated elegance. It's commonly used as a neutral background or accent color in various design applications due to its versatility and ability to blend seamlessly with other colors. The perceived darkness of #2A2A2D provides a stable and grounding visual effect, making it a popular choice for creating balanced and harmonious compositions in both digital and physical designs.
The hex color #2A2A2D, also known as Baltic Sea, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance value. Its dark nature means that text rendered in this color requires a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. It is unlikely that #2A2A2D meets these requirements against many background colors, potentially excluding users who need high contrast to perceive content effectively. Developers should carefully evaluate color combinations or use contrast ratio checkers to ensure compliance. Using this color sparingly, such as for purely decorative elements, can mitigate accessibility issues. Providing alternative high-contrast themes is a good practice.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade, offering improved contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #404040
A desaturated gray that provides a neutral base for text and other design elements.
- #303030
A dark gray shade that is close to the original color but offers better readability against light backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #2A2A2D can be used for website backgrounds or headers to establish a sophisticated and modern feel. Its deep, muted tone works well when paired with brighter accent colors to create visual interest without being overwhelming. For example, using it as a background with neon or pastel colored text can make the text stand out while still maintaining a professional appearance. Also, #2A2A2D can be applied to icons and graphics, adding a subtle depth and richness to the overall aesthetic. Furthermore, this color can be used as a base for dark themes, promoting eye comfort during prolonged use.
Interior Design
In interior design, #2A2A2D can be employed for accent walls or furniture upholstery, providing a grounding element to a room. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing a sense of warmth and luxury. For example, using #2A2A2D for a velvet couch or a textured wall can add depth and sophistication to a living space. Furthermore, this color works effectively in creating a balanced color scheme when combined with lighter hues or metallic accents, resulting in visually appealing and cohesive interiors. Incorporating it as a neutral base allows brighter colors to pop and creates a sophisticated atmosphere.
Fashion
In fashion, #2A2A2D offers a versatile and stylish option for clothing and accessories. It serves as a classic neutral that can be easily paired with various colors and textures. For instance, a dress or suit in this shade exudes sophistication and professionalism. The color's understated nature allows for bold accessories to take center stage. Furthermore, it can be used in footwear, bags, and other accessories to provide a subtle and elegant contrast to brighter outfits. This dark hue adds a refined touch, making it a staple in versatile wardrobes, suitable for diverse occasions and settings.