Oil
General Information about #2B1C1A (Oil)
The hex color code #2B1C1A, often referred to as "Oil", is a dark, muted shade of brown. It is composed of 17.1% red, 11% green, and 10.2% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of R:43, G:28, B:26. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 0% cyan, 35% magenta, 39.5% yellow and 83% black. Its dark nature places it within the lower end of the luminance spectrum, contributing to its subdued and earthy appearance. Colors similar to Oil can often be found in natural settings, such as the bark of trees or dark soil. This makes it useful in a wide array of different graphic design projects, that need a dark accent color with natural appearance. Oil can be used in many ways, each giving a certain vibe and can be a great contribution to make the project even better.
The color #2B1C1A, also known as Oil, presents accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast against both white and light backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text rendered in this color. 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 is unlikely to meet these ratios against lighter backgrounds. To improve accessibility, consider pairing Oil with very light colors or using it for purely decorative elements where legibility is not crucial. Ensuring sufficient contrast is vital for inclusive design, benefiting users with low vision, color blindness, or those simply viewing content in brightly lit environments. Larger text sizes and heavier font weights can somewhat mitigate the contrast issue, but careful consideration of the background color is still essential.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark, earthy feel.
A slightly desaturated brown offers a softer appearance and potentially improved readability depending on the context.
Dark gray offers a safe and accessible alternative for text and UI elements ensuring good readability.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Oil (#2B1C1A) can serve as an accent color for backgrounds or borders, lending a touch of sophistication and warmth to the overall aesthetic. It is suitable for websites related to nature, outdoor activities, or rustic themes. As a background for larger titles it can be acceptable, however, as text color it should be avoided because it can create accessibility issues. To guarantee an optimal user experience, designers should ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements, such as using light text on the Oil background or vice versa. Proper testing with accessibility tools is crucial to comply with WCAG guidelines and provide an inclusive and user-friendly design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Oil can be used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accessories to add depth and richness to a space. The muted tone pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather, enhancing the sense of warmth. To avoid making a room feel too dark, balance it with lighter colors and ample lighting. Incorporating Oil in smaller doses, such as through cushions or artwork, can also be effective in adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the beauty and cosmetics industry, Oil (#2B1C1A) can be used as an eyeshadow color to provide depth and definition. Its dark tone adds a touch of drama, making it suitable for evening looks. Additionally, it can be incorporated into nail polish formulations, offering a unique and sophisticated color option. When used as an eyeshadow, it pairs well with lighter, shimmery shades to create contrast and dimension. For nail polish, it can be complemented with metallic accents or glossy topcoats for a polished appearance.