Manatee
General Information
The hexadecimal color #9A8EA6, commonly referred to as Manatee, is a muted, desaturated shade of gray-purple. It belongs to the gray color family, exhibiting characteristics of both gray and purple, but with a distinct lack of vividness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 60.39% red, 55.69% green, and 65.1% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 7% cyan, 15% magenta, 0% yellow and 35% black. This subtle color is often associated with calmness, sophistication, and neutrality. Manatee's understated nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds, text, and other design elements where a subdued yet elegant aesthetic is desired. It is widely used in design contexts for both digital and print media.
The color #9A8EA6, also known as Manatee, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white text is approximately 2.2:1, which falls short of the WCAG's minimum requirement of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This means that using white text on a Manatee background might be difficult for users with low vision or color blindness to read comfortably. Similarly, using black text on a Manatee background only provides a contrast ratio of 4.6:1, which is just barely acceptable. To improve accessibility, consider using darker shades of grey or black for text on a Manatee background, or using a lighter tint of white or yellow for text. Additionally, providing alternative cues such as icons or text labels can help users who have difficulty distinguishing color to understand the content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Manatee (#9A8EA6) can be used as a subtle background color for websites or applications, providing a calm and sophisticated feel. It works particularly well in designs that aim for a minimalist or modern aesthetic. The color can also be used for secondary text or elements to create visual hierarchy and guide the user's eye. However, careful consideration of text color is crucial to ensure readability, as the contrast ratio with white or very light text may be insufficient for accessibility standards. Complementary colors should be considered for interactive elements.
Interior Design
In interior design, Manatee can serve as a neutral wall color, creating a soothing and elegant atmosphere. It pairs well with both warm and cool tones, making it versatile for various decor styles. It can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, or even office spaces to promote a sense of tranquility and sophistication. To avoid a monotonous look, it's important to incorporate textures and accent colors through furniture, artwork, and accessories.
Fashion
In fashion, Manatee can be used for garments such as sweaters, trousers, or dresses. It is a sophisticated neutral color which is versatile and works well with different skin tones, offering a refined alternative to brighter colors. It can be styled with bolder accessories to create contrast and interest or paired with other neutral shades for a monochromatic look. It is well suited for creating capsule wardrobes that can be mixed and matched, and is ideal for corporate or formal wear. Manatee evokes a sense of understated elegance.