Black Russian
General Information about #06011A
The hex color code #06011A, often referred to as "Black Russian," is a very dark shade of purple. It belongs to the family of purple hues but is so deep that it often appears nearly black. This color is composed of 2.4% red, 0.4% green, and 10.2% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as RGB(6, 1, 26). In the CMYK color space, it is composed of 76.9% cyan, 96.2% magenta, 0% yellow, and 89.8% black. Due to its low brightness value, it is generally not recommended for use as a primary text color on light backgrounds, as it can pose accessibility challenges. The color exudes an air of mystery, elegance, and sophistication, but its dark nature means it should be used carefully.
The color #06011A, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its extremely low luminance results in poor contrast against most background colors, especially white or light shades. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. Using #06011A for text or interactive elements requires careful consideration of the background color. A very light background is essential, and even then, it's recommended to increase the font size and weight to improve readability. Tools like contrast checkers can help ensure compliance with accessibility standards, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Furthermore, consider providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with different visual preferences or needs. Avoid using this color for critical information or interactive elements without thorough testing and validation with diverse user groups.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a0033
A slightly lighter shade of dark purple that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #33334d
A dark grayish-blue provides a less intense dark tone and improved readability on light backgrounds.
- #130a1a
A very dark desaturated purple that is close to black, but easier on the eyes
Applications
Web Design and Branding
In web design, Black Russian can be used sparingly for decorative elements, such as borders or subtle background accents, where high contrast is not essential. It evokes a sense of luxury and sophistication when used appropriately. For instance, it can serve as a background for a website's header or footer, paired with light-colored text and imagery. However, it should never be used for primary text or interactive elements due to accessibility concerns. In branding, this color can represent exclusivity and elegance, often used in logos or marketing materials for high-end products or services. Careful attention must be paid to contrast and legibility in all applications.
Fashion, Beauty and Interior Design
In fashion and beauty, Black Russian translates to deep, mysterious tones in clothing, accessories, or makeup. Think of a luxurious velvet gown or a dramatic smoky eye. The color works well as a base for layering other colors and textures. In interior design, it can be used to create a dramatic and cozy atmosphere in rooms with ample natural light. It can be incorporated through paint, upholstery, or accent pieces. When using this color in interior design or fashion, it is important to balance it with lighter, brighter colors to avoid making the space or outfit feel too heavy or gloomy.
Comics
The Black Russian color can be used in combination with a lighter pink or purple color as the background for comic book panels of dark scenes, creating a sense of mystery. Alternatively, it can serve as the text color for light surfaces, to create a creepy mood in specific scenes.