Mallard
General Information About Mallard
The hexadecimal color code #2A411A represents a dark shade of green, often referred to as 'Mallard' due to its resemblance to the coloration found in Mallard ducks. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it is composed of 16.47% red, 25.49% green, and 10.2% blue. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, it consists of 35.37% cyan, 0% magenta, 60% yellow, and 74.51% black. This color is generally associated with nature, earthiness, and sophistication. It can evoke feelings of calmness, stability, and harmony. Because of its dark nature, it is best suited to be used with lighter accents to bring out the natural hues and to provide readability to any text put upon the dark background.
The color #2A411A, also known as Mallard, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its relatively low luminance. When used as text, it's crucial to ensure a sufficient contrast ratio against the background color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. If this color is used for interactive elements like buttons or links, consider providing clear visual cues beyond just color to ensure users with color vision deficiencies can perceive the state and function of the element. For instance, adding an underline to links or a border to buttons on hover or focus states can significantly improve accessibility. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of important information, as users who are colorblind may not be able to distinguish it. Testing with accessibility tools is highly recommended.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #556b2f
Dark olive green offers a similar natural feel but with slightly better contrast on light backgrounds.
- #228b22
Forest green provides a vibrant alternative, offering better visibility while maintaining an earthy tone.
- #bdb76b
A dark khaki color can provide a similar subtle feel, while having different aesthetic applications.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Mallard (#2A411A) can be utilized to create a sophisticated and natural aesthetic for websites related to environmental conservation, outdoor gear, or sustainable living. It works well as a background color for headers or sidebars, providing a calming and earthy feel. When combined with lighter neutral tones like beige or cream, it evokes a sense of tranquility and harmony. Consider using it for icons or subtle accents to draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the overall design. Ensure sufficient contrast with text elements to maintain readability and accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Mallard (#2A411A) can be incorporated to bring a touch of nature indoors. It's suitable for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Pairing it with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen enhances its organic appeal. It also works well for upholstery in furniture, adding a subtle yet elegant touch to sofas, chairs, or ottomans. Complement with warm lighting to enhance the color's richness and create a relaxing ambiance. Use plants to boost the naturality of the scene.
Fashion
In fashion, Mallard (#2A411A) can be used to create sophisticated and understated looks. It works well for outerwear such as jackets or coats, providing a versatile and stylish option for autumn and winter wardrobes. It can also be incorporated into accessories like scarves or hats, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit. Pair it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic look, or combine it with warmer tones like mustard yellow or burgundy for a bolder statement. Suitable for formal and informal events.