Bombay
General Information about #B4B0B6
The hex color #B4B0B6, often referred to as "Bombay", is a muted, medium-light shade of gray. It belongs to the gray color family, characterized by its lack of strong chromaticity. In the RGB color model, #B4B0B6 is composed of 70.59% red, 69.02% green, and 71.37% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 1.1% cyan, 3.3% magenta, 0% yellow, and 28.6% black. This color is frequently used in design and art to convey neutrality, balance, and sophistication. Its subtle nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds, text, and other design elements where a non-distracting color is desired.
The color #B4B0B6, also known as Bombay, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against both black and white backgrounds falls within an acceptable but not ideal range. For text applications, it's advisable to use a darker shade for the text color on a #B4B0B6 background or, conversely, a lighter shade for the background if #B4B0B6 is used for text. This will ensure readability and compliance with WCAG guidelines, specifically concerning color contrast. When using this color for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues beyond color alone, such as icons or text labels, to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies. A minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter gray that offers a softer appearance while maintaining a neutral tone.
A darker gray that provides better contrast and enhances readability when used for text or interactive elements.
This color offers a slightly warmer tone than the original color, making it suitable for designs that require subtle warmth while retaining neutrality.
Applications
User Interface Design
In user interface design, #B4B0B6 can serve as a background for less critical elements, such as secondary navigation menus or card backgrounds. Its neutral nature prevents it from distracting from primary content while maintaining a clean and modern aesthetic. It is especially useful to establish a clear visual hierarchy by creating a subtle differentiation between elements.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Bombay #B4B0B6 can be used as a versatile neutral in apparel design, working well for both casual and formal wear. It pairs nicely with brighter, bolder colors, allowing them to stand out while providing a sophisticated, understated backdrop. It's a great choice for creating minimalist outfits or serving as a base color in more complex patterns.
Interior Design
In interior design, #B4B0B6 works well as a wall color or for upholstery. Its neutral tone allows it to blend seamlessly with various design styles and color schemes. It's particularly useful for creating a calming and serene atmosphere in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Its ability to reflect light makes it a great choice for brightening up spaces.