Black Russian
General Information about #000323
#000323, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of blue-black. It is composed of 0% red, 1.2% green, and 13.7% blue. In the RGB color space, this color is nearly black with a slight hint of blue, giving it a deep and somber tone. The color's hexadecimal representation provides a standardized way to define it in digital environments, particularly in web development and graphic design. Due to its low lightness value, it can evoke feelings of sophistication, mystery, or formality. However, its practical use is limited in many contexts due to the challenges associated with readability and contrast. Black Russian belongs to the family of nearly achromatic colors, where one or more of the primary color components are present in very small quantities. The color is perceived as very dark by the human eye and falls near the bottom of the lightness scale, closely resembling pure black.
The color #000323, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its very dark nature results in poor contrast against almost any background color, especially white. This can make text and other visual elements rendered in this color difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to perceive. Ensuring sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability, as stipulated by WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Black Russian severely fails to meet these standards against light backgrounds. Web developers should avoid using this color for text or important interface elements unless paired with a very light color that ensures an adequate contrast ratio. Using color contrast tools during the design phase is highly recommended to prevent accessibility issues and ensure an inclusive user experience. Furthermore, providing alternative styling options or themes can greatly benefit users with diverse visual needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #111111
A slightly lighter shade of black can improve contrast while still maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #222222
A very dark gray offers better readability against light backgrounds compared to pure black.
- #001133
A dark blue can give a similar aesthetic impression but potentially offer slightly better contrast depending on the specific context.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, this color can be used sparingly for background accents or as a very subtle shade in dark-themed interfaces, but its use should be carefully considered due to accessibility concerns. Always prioritize sufficient contrast, especially when rendering text over this color. Using it as a primary text color is strongly discouraged.
Interior Design
In interior design, #000323 could be used as a very deep accent color in dimly lit spaces or as a component of a larger, complex color palette. It would be more appropriate for luxurious or dramatic settings where it can be paired with metallic or lighter contrasting elements. However, its use in large quantities in living spaces is not recommended, as it can make a room feel oppressive.
Fashion
In fashion, this hue can be used to create elegant and mysterious looks. It can be incorporated into evening wear, accessories, or as a base color for layered outfits. Combining it with brighter, contrasting colors or metallic elements can enhance its visual appeal and avoid a monotonous or dull appearance. This color might be suitable for creating silhouettes and defining shapes, but may also absorb light.