Oil
General Information about #2B1B14 (Oil)
The hex color #2B1B14, also known as Oil, is a dark, muted shade of brown. It evokes feelings of warmth and earthiness, reminiscent of natural elements like wood or soil. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 17.1% red, 10.6% green, and 7.8% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 38% magenta, 54% yellow, and 83% black. The color's low saturation and lightness values contribute to its understated and subtle appearance. It is often associated with concepts of stability, reliability, and tradition. Due to its darkness, it should be used judiciously in design to ensure readability and avoid creating a visually heavy or oppressive atmosphere. It's a color that works well as an accent or background when paired with lighter, brighter hues.
The color #2B1B14, also known as Oil, has very poor accessibility due to its dark nature. Its low lightness value means that it provides insufficient contrast against white text, making it difficult for users, especially those with visual impairments, to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Oil falls far short of these recommendations. Therefore, it is crucial to use lighter text or background colors in conjunction with Oil to ensure readability. Avoid using it for essential information or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast. Tools such as contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Oil can be used sparingly as a background color for specific sections where a dark, muted tone is desired, such as footers or headers. However, it's crucial to pair it with light, contrasting text to ensure readability. It can also be used for decorative elements like borders or dividers, adding a subtle touch of depth to the overall design. When used in website themes, Oil should be complemented by brighter accent colors to prevent the design from appearing too somber or monotonous.
Interior Design
In interior design, Oil can be used as a sophisticated accent color for walls, furniture, or accessories. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It's best suited for spaces where a sense of calm and relaxation is desired, such as living rooms or bedrooms. Complementary colors like beige or cream can be used to balance the darkness and create a harmonious color palette. To prevent the room from feeling too dark, it's important to incorporate ample lighting.
Cosmetics
Oil is a dark color and may be used for eye shadow to give a smokey dark effect. The color may also be used as a dark eyebrow pencil or lip liner to enhance colors. Oil should be supported by brighter base colors to enhance accessibility and avoid to be perceived as goth.