Mine Shaft
General Information about #2C2E31
The hexadecimal color code #2C2E31, commonly referred to as 'Mine Shaft,' is a dark, muted gray that resides in the realm of neutral colors. It is composed of 17.25% red, 18.04% green, and 19.22% blue. This subtle balance gives it a cool undertone. In the RGB color model, #2C2E31 is created by mixing these three primary colors in specific proportions. This particular shade of gray is frequently utilized in design contexts where a sense of sophistication, subtlety, and understated elegance is desired. Due to its neutrality, 'Mine Shaft' pairs well with a wide array of colors, allowing it to function effectively as both a background and an accent color. Its name, evocative of dark underground passages, hints at its depth and complexity. The color is also known for its calming and relaxing effect when used in large quantities.
The hex color #2C2E31, also known as Mine Shaft, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, the contrast ratio may fall below the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) recommended levels for readability. This means that users with visual impairments may struggle to distinguish the text. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #2C2E31 with lighter background colors or using it sparingly for decorative elements. Ensure sufficient contrast by using tools to check the contrast ratio against your chosen background. A minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG AA standards. For enhanced accessibility (WCAG AAA), even higher contrast ratios are preferred. It's always beneficial to test your color choices with real users to ensure optimal readability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web and Interior Design
In web design, #2C2E31 can serve as an excellent background color for website headers or footers, lending a sophisticated and modern feel. Its neutrality allows foreground content, such as text and images, to stand out without clashing. The color is also suitable for UI elements like buttons and navigation bars, particularly when aiming for a minimalist aesthetic. In interior design, 'Mine Shaft' can be applied to accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms to introduce a touch of elegance. Furthermore, this color works well in home offices to promote concentration and a sense of calmness. Consider its use in furniture, such as sofas or armchairs, to add a refined touch to living spaces.
Fashion and Graphic Design
#2C2E31 presents itself as a formidable color choice within the realm of fashion and graphic design. Its dark, muted tone exudes sophistication and versatility. In fashion, garments of this hue can serve as a foundational piece, easily paired with vibrant or pastel colors. Accessory-wise, this color makes for great leather products such as belts and wallets. In graphic design, it can be used for branding elements like logos or packaging to convey a sense of maturity and trustworthiness. It can be incorporated as the background color in promotional materials or website designs to create a sleek and understated look.
App Development
In app development, #2C2E31 can be used to create a dark theme for increased user comfort during nighttime use. It can also be used for icons, separators, and subtle UI elements to create a clean and modern look. The color's neutrality makes it easy to pair with accent colors for interactive elements, ensuring a consistent and accessible user experience across the entire application. The subtle nature of the color allows for the other branding elements to stand out in contrast.