Bleached Cedar
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #2C2137, often referred to as Bleached Cedar, is a dark, muted shade of purple. It is composed of 17.3% red, 13.0% green, and 21.6% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a subdued and somewhat mysterious hue, often associated with feelings of sophistication and introspection. This color is frequently used in design contexts to evoke a sense of elegance and subtlety, and it can serve as a grounding neutral in a broader color palette. It presents a unique option compared to standard grays or blacks, offering a slightly more nuanced tone that can add depth to visual compositions. Its subdued nature allows it to pair well with brighter or more vibrant colors, providing a balanced contrast.
The color #2C2137, also known as Bleached Cedar, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning text contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to ensure that any foreground text has sufficient contrast to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using online contrast checkers is advisable to verify compliance. Visually, individuals with low vision may struggle to distinguish text or elements against a #2C2137 background if the contrast is poor. Therefore, employing lighter text colors such as whites, light grays, or pastel shades could significantly improve readability. Also, avoid using #2C2137 for crucial interactive elements without appropriate visual cues, ensuring that users can easily identify and interact with them. Semantic HTML and ARIA attributes can further enhance accessibility, providing assistive technologies with the necessary information to convey content effectively.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4a4458
A lighter shade that offers better contrast for text and interactive elements, improving accessibility.
- #333333
A neutral gray that provides a more balanced background for various content types, ensuring readability and visual comfort.
- #301934
A very dark purple which is similar, but offers a slightly different tone.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #2C2137 can be employed for creating a sophisticated and muted background, particularly for websites aiming for an elegant or mysterious aesthetic. It is a great fit for portfolios, creative agency sites, or even personal blogs that want to convey a sense of depth. However, careful consideration should be given to text contrast to ensure optimal readability. When used strategically with brighter accent colors, it can create a visually appealing and user-friendly experience. Its dark tone can make elements such as cards or navigation menus stand out.
Interior Design
In interior design, Bleached Cedar can be applied to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for bedrooms or living rooms. This color pairs well with natural materials such as wood and stone, enhancing its earthy tones. For furniture, lighter shades of grey, beige, or even pastel hues can be used to create a balanced contrast against the wall color. It can also be used as an accent wall color to make it even more dynamic. Accessories like cushions, rugs, and artwork in complementary colors can bring warmth and personality to the space.
Fashion
In fashion, #2C2137 can be used for creating elegant evening wear or sophisticated casual attire. Its dark tone provides a versatile backdrop for showcasing textures and embellishments, allowing intricate details to stand out. This color works well for accessories like handbags, shoes, and scarves, adding a touch of mystery and depth to any outfit. When paired with metallic accents, it creates a luxurious and glamorous appeal. It is also a great choice for outerwear, offering a stylish and timeless look.