Outer Space
General Information about #2E3440
The hex color #2E3440, commonly referred to as 'Outer Space,' is a dark, muted shade of gray with a subtle coolness. It belongs to the grayscale family, but has blue undertones. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 18.04% red, 20.39% green, and 25.1% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 28.24% cyan, 18.75% magenta, 0% yellow, and 74.9% black. This hex code is often used in design contexts where a dark, neutral, and somewhat subdued aesthetic is desired. Its dark nature makes it suitable for backgrounds where light text is to be placed over it to create strong contrast, making it highly legible. It is a very practical color often associated with elegance, modernity and a sense of calm.
The hex color #2E3440, also known as Outer Space, presents specific accessibility considerations for web development. Its dark nature implies a need for light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify compliance. Insufficient contrast can exclude users with low vision or color blindness. Additionally, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided. Supplement color cues with text labels or icons. When using this color for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual distinction in hover, focus, and active states to meet accessibility standards for users with motor impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #37404a
A slightly lighter shade of gray that maintains a professional and subtle appearance while potentially offering better contrast with certain lighter text colors.
- #222730
A darker shade, providing even more contrast when paired with light text and creating a stronger visual impact.
- #343a40
A muted blue-gray offering a similar dark tone with a hint of color, which can be easier on the eyes for some users compared to a stark, pure gray.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #2E3440 serves as an excellent choice for website backgrounds, particularly for sections needing high contrast with light-colored text. It's also suitable for sidebars, navigation menus, and footers where a sophisticated, muted tone is desired. The color's neutrality makes it easy to pair with brighter accent colors. It works especially well in tech-related websites, software interfaces, or any site aiming for a professional and sleek aesthetic. Furthermore, this shade can also be used for charts and graphs, providing a subtle, non-distracting backdrop for data visualization.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Outer Space (#2E3440) can be applied as an accent wall color to create a modern and elegant space. Its subdued nature allows it to blend seamlessly with various decor styles. It can be paired with brighter furniture or artwork to create a balanced and visually appealing contrast. Additionally, this color works effectively in home offices or study areas, promoting a sense of calm and focus. The dark tone also works great on doors and trims to give a room depth and definition.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Outer Space can be used for sophisticated and versatile wardrobe pieces. It can serve as the foundation for creating stylish outfits. This color works great on jackets, pants, or skirts. It can be paired with brighter colors or metallic accessories for a balanced look. Furthermore, it serves as an excellent alternative to black for formal wear or business attire. This shade provides a comfortable and refined aesthetic.