Outer Space
General Information About #30383A
The hex color #30383A, often referred to as "Outer Space," is a dark, muted shade of gray with subtle cool undertones. It belongs to the gray color family, known for its neutrality and versatility. In the RGB color model, #30383A is composed of 18.82% red, 21.96% green, and 22.75% blue. This composition gives it a balanced, achromatic appearance. In the world of color theory, grays are often considered sophisticated and understated, making them popular choices in design and art. Because of its muted nature, it is often used as a background or accent color in various applications. It is not a particularly common color, but due to its versatility, many may find it a pleasing color.
The hex color #30383A, also known as Outer Space, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. With a relatively low luminance, using this color as a background can create insufficient contrast with lighter text colors, potentially making content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #30383A, it's essential to pair it with a text color that meets these contrast requirements. Lighter shades of gray, white, or even carefully chosen pastel colors might work, but thorough testing with accessibility tools is crucial. Developers should also consider providing alternative color schemes to allow users to customize their viewing experience. Non-text elements should also comply with contrast requirements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #404040
A slightly lighter gray that provides better contrast with both light and dark text.
- #282828
A darker charcoal color, offering a sophisticated look while maintaining readability when paired with appropriate text colors.
- #333333
A neutral dark grey that offers versatility and can be used effectively in various design contexts.
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
In web development, #30383A can be effectively used for website backgrounds, especially in designs aiming for a modern, minimalist aesthetic. Its muted tone provides a sophisticated backdrop for showcasing vibrant content. For example, on a photography portfolio website, this color can subtly highlight the images without distracting the viewer. However, developers should ensure sufficient contrast between the background and text elements for optimal readability. This color may also be used in website footers and headers to create a sleek user interface. Use it sparingly to create a professional feel.
Interior Design Wall Color
In interior design, the 'Outer Space' color can serve as a sophisticated wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a calming and elegant atmosphere. Its neutrality allows it to be paired with a wide range of accent colors, from vibrant blues and greens to warm oranges and yellows. This color works well in modern and contemporary spaces, providing a grounding element that complements both minimalist and maximalist design schemes. The color can also be used for furniture upholstery or accent pieces, such as throw pillows or curtains.
Fashion Apparel
#30383A serves as a foundational tone for assembling professional and versatile outfits. It works exceptionally well for business-casual attire, such as trousers, skirts, or blazers. It's an excellent substitute for black, providing a softer, more approachable look while maintaining sophistication. This color harmonizes with a broad spectrum of hues, from muted neutrals to jewel tones, making it easy to create stylish and cohesive ensembles. Accessorizing with silver or gunmetal jewelry complements the color's cool undertones, enhancing its overall appeal.