Black Russian
General Information about #020319
The hex color #020319, sometimes referred to as 'Black Russian' in certain color palettes, is a very dark shade of black with slight hints of blue and green. It falls within the RGB color space with values of R:2, G:3, and B:25. This color is characterized by its extremely low luminance, making it appear almost entirely black to the human eye. In terms of color theory, #020319 is considered a neutral color, often associated with elegance, mystery, and sophistication. Due to its high darkness, it tends to absorb light rather than reflect it, contributing to its depth and intensity. This hex code is primarily used in digital design, web development, and graphic design, though its usage is often limited due to accessibility concerns related to contrast.
The hex color #020319, often referred to as Black Russian due to its deep, dark hue, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against almost any background color, particularly white or light shades. This poses considerable problems for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Web developers should avoid using this color for text or interactive elements without implementing careful contrast adjustments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text as per WCAG guidelines. This often necessitates pairing #020319 with a very light color to meet accessibility standards and ensure readability. Using it sparingly for decorative purposes or backgrounds, while ensuring sufficient contrast with foreground elements, can mitigate some accessibility issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #121329
A slightly lighter shade of black that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while still maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #222339
A dark gray that offers improved readability compared to pure black, making it a more accessible choice for text.
- #020329
A dark blue with better luminosity.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #020319 can be used sparingly for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated, dark-themed aesthetic. It's crucial to pair this color with high-contrast text (e.g., white or light yellow) to ensure readability and accessibility. For instance, a technology blog might use #020319 as a background color for code snippets, making the syntax highlighting stand out. However, it should be avoided for large blocks of text or interactive elements due to its low contrast ratio, which can strain the user's eyes and reduce usability.
Interior Design
In interior design, #020319 can be used as an accent color to add depth and drama to a room. It works well in small doses, such as on a feature wall or as a trim color. When paired with lighter colors and natural textures like wood or stone, #020319 can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It can be an elegant choice for bedrooms or home theaters, providing a sense of luxury and intimacy. However, it's important to balance the darkness with adequate lighting to prevent the space from feeling too oppressive.
Fashion
In fashion, this shade is suitable for formal wear, evening gowns, or as an accent color in accessories. The color evokes feelings of sophistication and mystery. It can be used in combination with more vibrant colors to create eye-catching contrasts, or paired with neutral tones for a subtle look.