Mikado
General Information about #2C2314
The hexadecimal color code #2C2314, also known as Mikado, represents a dark shade of brown. It is composed of 17.25% red, 13.73% green, and 7.84% blue. In the RGB color space, it translates to R:44, G:35, B:20. This color is typically associated with earth tones, providing a sense of warmth, stability, and sophistication. It leans towards the darker end of the spectrum, making it suitable for backgrounds, accents, or elements where a subdued and elegant feel is desired. Its relative darkness means it should be carefully considered in relation to other colors to ensure sufficient contrast and readability, especially in text or user interface design. The color can evoke feelings of nature, tradition, and luxury.
The color #2C2314, also known as Mikado, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value of approximately 4% results in very poor contrast against a standard white background. This fails WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for text and non-text contrast. Using #2C2314 for text would require extremely light foreground colors to be readable, and even then, readability would be compromised for users with low vision or color blindness. Similarly, using it for interactive elements like buttons or links would make them difficult to distinguish. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of brown or pairing it with much lighter accent colors to create sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to meet WCAG AA standards. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if a color combination is accessible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #2C2314 can be employed as an accent color for furniture or wall art in spaces aiming for a sophisticated, nature-inspired aesthetic. However, due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly and balanced with lighter, brighter hues to prevent the room from feeling too somber or small. Consider pairing it with warm lighting and natural textures like wood or linen to enhance its richness without overwhelming the space. Accents in gold or brass can further complement the color's inherent elegance.
Branding for Earthy and Luxurious Products
In graphic design, #2C2314 is suited for creating logos or branding materials that evoke feelings of earthiness, reliability, and luxury. It works particularly well for brands in the coffee, chocolate, or outdoor industries. When using it in logos or other visual elements, ensure sufficient contrast against the background to maintain legibility and visibility. It pairs well with creams, golds, or other natural tones to create a cohesive and sophisticated visual identity.
Autumn/Winter Fashion Base Color
In fashion, #2C2314 can be utilized as a base color for autumn and winter collections, providing a sense of warmth and sophistication. It can be used for garments such as coats, trousers, or skirts, and pairs well with other earthy tones like olive green, burnt orange, or cream. Accessorizing with gold or bronze jewelry can enhance the luxurious feel of the color. However, it's important to consider the overall silhouette and fabric to avoid making the outfit appear too heavy or drab. Lighter fabrics or strategic layering can help to balance the darkness of the color.