Baltic Sea
General Information about #2B242E
The hexadecimal color code #2B242E, often referred to as 'Baltic Sea', is a dark, desaturated shade of purple-gray. It is composed of 17.1% red, 14.1% green, and 18% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 43 red, 36 green, and 46 blue. Its CMYK representation is 0% cyan, 16% magenta, 0% yellow, and 82% black. This indicates that the color is primarily composed of black with a slight hint of magenta. The hue angle is 277.7 degrees, the saturation is 11.1%, and the lightness is 15.3%. Colors similar to #2B242E often evoke feelings of sophistication, neutrality, and understated elegance. Its subtle nature makes it a versatile choice for various design applications where a muted and refined aesthetic is desired.
The hex color #2B242E, also known as Baltic Sea, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 4% means that text or interactive elements using this color may not provide sufficient contrast against a white or light background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. Therefore, when using #2B242E, it is crucial to pair it with a very light color, such as white or a pale yellow, to meet accessibility standards. Additionally, avoid using this color for essential information or interactive elements without proper contrast adjustments, as it could exclude users who rely on sufficient contrast to perceive content effectively. Always test color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools to verify compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #202836
A dark blue that offers a similar aesthetic but with potentially improved contrast depending on the paired colors.
- #303030
A neutral dark gray providing a similar depth but enhanced versatility for various UI elements, offering a balanced aesthetic.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #2B242E can be effectively used for website headers, footers, or sidebars to create a sophisticated and understated look. Its dark hue provides a solid foundation for lighter text and graphics, ensuring readability while maintaining an elegant aesthetic. It's particularly well-suited for websites aiming for a professional or minimalist design, such as portfolios, business sites, or blogs. The color's depth adds a touch of class without being overly distracting, allowing content to remain the primary focus. Consider using it in conjunction with complementary colors to create visually appealing and balanced layouts.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, the color #2B242E evokes a sense of calm and sophistication. It can be used to paint an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point that adds depth and character to the space. Complement it with lighter furniture and decor to balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling too enclosed. This color works especially well in modern or contemporary settings, where its muted tone complements clean lines and minimalist aesthetics. Consider adding metallic accents, like gold or silver, to elevate the overall look and create a luxurious feel.
Fashion and Print
The color #2B242E is suitable for creating high-end fashion garments, particularly for evening wear or formal attire. It can be used as the base color for dresses, suits, or outerwear to create a sleek and sophisticated look. Its dark tone pairs well with metallic accents or embellishments, adding a touch of glamour to the design. In print, Baltic Sea is an excellent choice for business cards, letterheads, or invitations, conveying professionalism and elegance. Its deep shade works effectively as a background or accent color, especially when combined with gold or silver foil stamping.