Black Russian
General Information
The hex color code #020320 represents a very dark shade of blue, often referred to as 'Black Russian' in color naming conventions. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0.78% red, 1.18% green, and 12.55% blue. This composition makes it heavily biased towards the blue spectrum, resulting in its deep, almost black appearance with a subtle blue undertone. This color is frequently utilized to create a sense of mystery, depth, or sophistication in various design applications. It is a very difficult color to use in web applications because it has very poor contrast against a white background. In the HSL color space, #020320 has a hue of 244 degrees, a saturation of 88.9%, and a lightness of 7%.
The hex color #020320, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its contrast ratio against white text is very poor, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to read text rendered in this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) require a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. #020320 fails to meet these standards. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors like white or very light grays. Another strategy is to use #020320 sparingly, perhaps as a background for decorative elements rather than essential content. Implementing sufficient spacing and clearly defined borders around elements using this color can also help users distinguish them. Avoid using #020320 for interactive elements like buttons or links without careful consideration of contrast. If possible, provide alternative color themes that offer higher contrast options.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Background
In web design, #020320 can create a sophisticated and mysterious atmosphere when used as a background for a portfolio or personal website. It's suitable for showcasing minimalist designs or artistic content, provided that text and interactive elements are designed with high contrast to ensure readability and accessibility. Its dark nature allows for bright imagery to pop out more.
High Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #020320 translates to a deep, inky black often seen in elegant evening wear or avant-garde designs. The color can be incorporated in fabrics like velvet or satin to add depth and richness. It's often paired with metallic accents or vibrant colors to create a striking contrast, appealing to designers seeking a dramatic and luxurious aesthetic.
Accent Wall Color
For interior design, #020320 is a bold choice often used to create a dramatic or intimate setting. It's suitable for accent walls in home theaters, lounges, or bedrooms. When balanced with lighter colors and warm lighting, it can add sophistication and depth to a space. Consider using it in combination with textures like wood or metal to enhance its visual impact and prevent the room from feeling too dark or closed off.