Cocoa Brown
General Information
The hex color #311822, often referred to as 'Cocoa Brown', is a dark and muted shade of brown. It belongs to the family of brown colors, which are generally associated with earth, nature, simplicity, and comfort. In the RGB color model, #311822 is composed of 19.22% red, 9.41% green, and 13.33% blue. Its CMYK representation is approximately 0% cyan, 51% magenta, 31% yellow, and 81% black. Cocoa Brown is often used to evoke feelings of warmth, stability, and sophistication. It’s a versatile color that can be applied in various design contexts, from web and graphic design to fashion and interior decoration. The hex color is perceived as elegant and timeless.
The hex color #311822, a deep cocoa brown, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means insufficient contrast against white backgrounds, failing WCAG standards for normal text (AA) and large text (AA) sizes. To improve accessibility, lighten the color considerably or pair it with a much lighter color such as #ffffff to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Conversely, using it with very dark backgrounds will make the text or design elements invisible. This color should be used sparingly for purely decorative purposes, not for conveying crucial information. Using colors with contrast will ensure that the content is available for as many people as possible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, cocoa brown (#311822) can be used to evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and sophistication, suitable for websites related to artisanal crafts, premium coffee, or vintage goods. Its rich, dark hue works well in small doses for backgrounds, accents, or text elements when paired with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Because it is a very dark color, it is recommended for use in combination with large fonts for increased readability. This provides an elegant, earthy feel to designs aiming for a classic or rustic aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, cocoa brown (#311822) can serve as a grounding color, creating a sense of stability and warmth in spaces. It is well suited for use in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies, where a cozy atmosphere is desired. This deep brown can be applied to walls, furniture, or textiles, providing a rich backdrop for brighter accents like gold, cream, or teal. Pairing it with natural materials such as wood, leather, or wool will enhance its earthy appeal. The color creates a classic ambiance when used in combination with the other colors.
Fashion Industry
In the fashion industry, cocoa brown (#311822) offers a versatile and timeless color option, often used in autumn and winter collections. This color conveys sophistication and elegance when used in garments such as coats, sweaters, and trousers. It can also serve as a neutral base for bolder accessories, such as scarves, bags, or jewelry in brighter colors. When applied to fabrics like wool, cashmere, or leather, cocoa brown exudes a luxurious feel. Moreover, this color is a popular choice for footwear, including boots and loafers, adding a touch of refined style to any outfit.