Melanzane
General Information
The hex color #2E0A25, also known as Melanzane, is a deep, muted shade of purple-brown. It resides in the red-purple hue range, leaning towards the darker end of the spectrum with a low saturation and brightness. In the RGB color model, it's composed of 18.43% red, 3.92% green, and 14.51% blue. When converted to the CMYK color model, it translates to approximately 0% cyan, 79% magenta, 21% yellow, and 82% black. This suggests that the color is primarily built from magenta and black inks. The name 'Melanzane,' derived from the Italian word for eggplant, aptly describes the color's resemblance to the vegetable's dark, purplish skin. The color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and a touch of drama, making it a suitable choice for designs aiming for a luxurious or elegant feel. Its low lightness value makes it a challenging color to work with from an accessibility perspective, requiring careful consideration of contrast ratios.
The color #2E0A25, also known as Melanzane, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning text and interactive elements. Its low lightness value (around 9%) means it requires very light foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed for normal text and 3:1 for large text against backgrounds. Using white text (#FFFFFF) on a #2E0A25 background yields a contrast ratio that may meet these standards, but careful evaluation is crucial. For individuals with visual impairments, particularly those with low vision, the contrast might still be insufficient. When using this color, consider increasing the font size and weight to improve readability. Avoid pairing it with other dark hues, as this further reduces contrast. Additionally, provide alternative visual cues for interactive elements that rely solely on color to convey information. Testing with accessibility tools and gathering feedback from users are essential steps to guarantee usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #48263f
A slightly lighter shade of purple can offer improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #5c535b
A more neutral gray-purple provides a safer base color for text and interactive elements.
- #5e213e
This hue introduces some warmth and can be a good alternative if you want to lean a bit away from the darkness of the original color.
Applications
Website Background
Melanzane (#2E0A25) can serve as a dramatic background in web design, especially for portfolios or artistic websites aiming for a sophisticated and mysterious feel. Use it sparingly to highlight specific content sections or create a focal point. Pair it with lighter, contrasting accents like creams or golds to prevent the design from feeling too heavy. Ensure all text is highly readable by using appropriate font sizes and weights. Consider adding subtle textures or gradients to the background to create visual interest without compromising usability.
Interior Accent Color
In interior design, Melanzane evokes a sense of luxury and intimacy. It works well in small spaces like reading nooks or powder rooms. To avoid overwhelming the space, balance it with lighter wall colors and ample lighting. Incorporate metallic accents like brass or copper to enhance its richness. Use it in textiles such as velvet or silk for a tactile and visually appealing effect. Plants with lush greenery can also complement the color and add a touch of freshness to the room.
Fashion Design
This color is a good choice for high fashion designs as the color exudes sophistication. It is useful for evening gowns or formal wear, and should be paired with metallic jewelry. For footwear, this color would also be appropriate in stiletto-style shoes or boots. The color creates a luxurious aesthetic.