Cocoa Brown
General Information about Cocoa Brown (#2B2321)
The hexadecimal color code #2B2321 represents a dark shade of brown, often referred to as cocoa brown. It is composed of 17.1% red, 13.7% green, and 12.9% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 43 red, 35 green, and 33 blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 18.6% magenta, 23.3% yellow, and 83.9% black. Cocoa brown evokes feelings of warmth, earthiness, and comfort, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to be inviting and grounded. The color can bring a sense of calm to the viewer, and can often be found in designs for food, drinks, nature or even rustic themed pages.
The color #2B2321, a dark cocoa brown, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white or light background, the contrast ratio might fall below the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) recommended levels for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, it's crucial to pair this color with a very light background to ensure readability. Alternatively, using #2B2321 for larger graphical elements or as a background color with very light text can be more accessible. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to confirm compliance and provide an inclusive user experience. Consider providing alternative color schemes for users who require higher contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #2B2321 can serve as a sophisticated background for sections needing a touch of warmth and elegance. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, cream, or light gray for a balanced aesthetic. For typography, reserve it for headings or decorative elements due to its low contrast. It can be used on websites related to chocolate, coffee, or natural products to convey earthiness and richness. Buttons and interactive elements may use a lighter shade for better visibility. This color brings warmth and invites a calm mood, perfect for websites that aim to be relaxing, welcoming and earthy.
Interior Design
In interior design, cocoa brown brings a sense of warmth and comfort to any space. It's a versatile color that can be used for walls, furniture, or accents. When using #2B2321 in a room, balance it with lighter colors like ivory, cream, or light gray to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Consider using it for accent walls, sofas, or rugs to add depth and character. Metallic accents like gold or brass can complement the richness of the brown, creating a sophisticated look. Plants can also soften the space.
Fashion
In fashion, cocoa brown is a versatile neutral that can be incorporated into a variety of outfits. It's a great alternative to black or navy, offering a softer and warmer look. Use it for staple pieces like coats, pants, or sweaters. Pair it with other neutrals like beige, cream, or gray for a classic and timeless look, or add pops of color with accessories in jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue. Because it's a dark tone, it can also be used to accent a bright outfit with darker shoes or accessories.