Black Russian
General Information about #000028
#000028, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of blue. It is composed of 0% red, 0% green, and 15.7% blue. In the RGB color space, it has the numerical values of 0, 0, and 40, meaning it leans heavily towards the blue end of the spectrum, while completely lacking any red or green components. The color is often associated with elegance, mystery, and sophistication, particularly when used in design and fashion. Due to its darkness, it can be used effectively to create a sense of depth and intimacy. Black Russian is commonly leveraged as a background or accent color, pairing well with lighter or brighter colors to create contrast and visual interest. It is not ideal for foreground text on a white or light background due to low contrast.
The hex color #000028 presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. It falls into the category of very dark colors, offering minimal contrast against typical light backgrounds like white. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color deficiencies. To meet accessibility standards, text or interactive elements using #000028 as a foreground color would necessitate a very light background color to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using this color for purely decorative elements poses less of a risk. Therefore, web developers should exercise extreme caution when incorporating #000028 into their designs, and rigorously test color combinations to ensure readability and usability for all users. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine whether specific combinations meet accessibility guidelines. The color is unsuitable for critical user interface elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
A desaturated variant that can be used to create a more muted and subtle design, while still maintaining a dark aesthetic.
A darker shade of grey, almost black, that still offers slightly improved visibility compared to #000028.
Applications
Web Design - Dark Mode
In web design, #000028 can be used sparingly for creating a sophisticated and mysterious atmosphere. It is suitable for backgrounds in niche websites such as dark mode enabled applications, or themes that emphasize a deep, rich aesthetic. However, careful attention must be paid to the contrast of text and other elements placed on this background. It's also good for dark logos or accents where it is not the primary color. For instance, #000028 could function as a background for a website focusing on astronomy or deep-sea exploration, setting a unique and immersive tone. But it should be balanced with brighter colors to avoid an interface that is too somber or difficult to navigate.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion industry, #000028 can represent elegance and sophistication, often found in evening wear or accessories that aim for a subtle yet powerful statement. Think of using it as part of a designer handbag collection, accentuating premium stitching details with a matching dark thread. In textile design, it could work as a background hue for fabrics featuring metallic or iridescent accents, creating a dramatic and luxurious feel. When incorporated thoughtfully, #000028 elevates fashion pieces with its unique dark quality and complements other textures and materials.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, #000028 can add depth and elegance when used judiciously. Think of using it in accent walls, providing a dramatic backdrop for brighter furniture or artwork. It's also fitting for smaller spaces like home theaters or studies, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. However, it's vital to balance the darkness with ample lighting and lighter decorative elements to avoid making the space feel too enclosed or somber. For example, pairing #000028 walls with lighter flooring, furniture, and accessories can create a sophisticated yet balanced interior.