Bleached Cedar
General Information about Bleached Cedar
The hexadecimal color code #312230 represents a dark, muted shade of purple-brown. Often described as 'Bleached Cedar', it conveys a sense of earthiness, tranquility, and understated elegance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 19.22% red, 13.33% green, and 18.82% blue. The CMYK representation is 0% cyan, 31% magenta, 1% yellow, and 81% black. This color is often associated with natural elements, rustic aesthetics, and a sense of refined simplicity. Its subtle nature makes it a versatile choice for various applications, from web design to interior decoration, providing a backdrop that's both soothing and sophisticated. It's a popular choice for brands looking to convey a sense of stability, calmness, and natural beauty.
The color #312230, also known as Bleached Cedar, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance value means it may not provide sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially making text or important UI elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Web developers should carefully consider the contrast ratio, aiming for at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as recommended by WCAG guidelines. Using color contrast analyzers can help ensure compliance. When using #312230 as a background, pairing it with very light text (e.g., whites or near-whites) can improve readability. If used for interactive elements, providing additional cues like underlines or icons can further enhance accessibility. Regular accessibility audits are essential to validate design choices and guarantee an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4a444d
A lighter neutral that provides better contrast against dark text, ensuring readability and accessibility.
- #3a2a39
A slightly warmer tone, providing a subtle color variation while remaining relatively neutral and easy to pair with other colors.
- #504450
A desaturated grey, ensuring the required contrast ratio to meet accessibility standards.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Bleached Cedar (#312230) can be effectively used in website backgrounds to create a sophisticated and muted aesthetic. When paired with light typography and minimalist design elements, it evokes a sense of calm and elegance. It's especially fitting for portfolios, blogs, or websites aiming for a refined and understated presence. Consider using it in sections like footers or sidebars to add depth without overwhelming the main content area. Additionally, it works well with complementary accent colors to highlight key interactive elements and call-to-actions.
Interior Design
In interior design, Bleached Cedar introduces a touch of subdued sophistication. It works beautifully as a wall color in bedrooms or living spaces, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Pair it with natural wood tones, soft textiles, and metallic accents like copper or gold to enhance its warmth. It also serves as a stylish base for furniture upholstery, offering a versatile backdrop for bolder accent pieces. The color's neutrality makes it a great choice for creating a balanced and harmonious environment.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Bleached Cedar serves as an excellent neutral for creating versatile and understated outfits. It works particularly well for outerwear, such as jackets or coats, providing a sophisticated alternative to traditional black or gray. It can be combined with brighter accent colors for a pop of visual interest or paired with other neutral tones for a monochromatic look. Its muted quality makes it a fantastic choice for accessories like scarves or handbags, allowing them to complement a wide range of ensembles without overpowering the overall aesthetic.