Cocoa Brown
General Information about #2C151E
The hexadecimal color code #2C151E represents a dark shade of brown, often referred to as 'Cocoa Brown.' It is composed of 17.3% red, 8.2% green, and 11.8% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined as (44, 21, 30). This color leans towards the warmer side of the spectrum, evoking feelings of comfort, earthiness, and sophistication. Cocoa Brown is frequently used in design to convey stability, reliability, and a sense of natural beauty. Its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds, text, and accent elements, providing a sophisticated and grounding effect. Its use can be traced back to the earliest days of design, and is still in use today. It works in harmony with different color schemes.
The color #2C151E, a deep cocoa brown, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as text on a white background. Its low luminance contrast ratio requires careful consideration to ensure readability 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. When using #2C151E for text, it's crucial to pair it with a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Conversely, using it as a background color necessitates very light text. Tools are available to check the contrast ratio between foreground and background colors to ensure compliance. Insufficient contrast can make content inaccessible to users with low vision or color blindness. Careful consideration of color combinations is key to inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3e2723
A slightly lighter brown that offers better contrast on light backgrounds.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray that provides good contrast for text.
- #673a3b
A rich, deep burgundy that provides a contrasting effect while maintaining a sense of warmth and sophistication, suitable for headings and design elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #2C151E can be used for background accents to create a warm and inviting feel. It is also suitable for highlighting buttons or calls to action on websites related to food, beverages, or nature. The color can be utilized sparingly for text, but always ensure sufficient contrast with the background to maintain accessibility. For instance, a website promoting artisanal coffee could use this color for its header or footer to evoke a sense of richness and tradition. Its depth works well with minimalist designs to add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cocoa Brown is a cozy and grounding color choice for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, or as a warm contrast to light furniture. It can be used in textiles such as throw pillows or blankets to add depth and a touch of warmth to the space. Consider pairing this color with creams, beiges, or soft blues to achieve a balanced and harmonious interior. It creates a sense of stability and comfort, making it suitable for areas where relaxation is key. It is especially effective when combined with natural materials such as wood or stone.
Fashion
In fashion, #2C151E can be incorporated into clothing, especially for autumn and winter collections. It makes a good selection for accessories like belts, bags, or shoes. The hex code is a sophisticated alternative to basic black and can be paired with gold or other metallic accents to increase its elegance. It's a versatile color that can be dressed up or down. It is useful for creating an understated look, and it can work as the base color in a layered outfit. #2C151E has the advantage that dirt does not show up that easily.