Black Russian
General Information
The hex color #060517, often referred to as "Black Russian", is a very dark shade of purple, almost appearing black. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.4% red, 2% green, and 8.6% blue. This color's primary characteristic is its extremely low luminance, which means it reflects very little light. Because of its darkness, #060517 is typically used as a background color or an accent color when paired with significantly lighter hues to ensure readability and visual contrast. The color evokes feelings of mystery, elegance, and sophistication, making it suitable for designs that aim to project a sense of luxury or depth. Its subtle purple undertones distinguish it from pure black, adding a touch of uniqueness and visual interest. The hex code translates to R:6, G:5, B:23 in decimal values.
The hex color #060517, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low luminance value means that it offers insufficient contrast against almost any light-colored text or interface element. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using #060517 as a background or text color without careful consideration can lead to an inaccessible design. To mitigate these issues, designers should pair #060517 with much lighter colors to ensure readability. Tools such as contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards and identify suitable color combinations. Also avoid using it for essential visual information, such as links or buttons, without additional cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #161527
A slightly lighter shade of dark purple, offering a bit more visibility while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #151626
A dark grayish-blue that provides a touch more brightness and can be easier on the eyes in certain contexts.
- #333333
A charcoal gray color that offers a good balance between darkness and contrast, making it easier to read text against this background.
Applications
Luxury Brand Website
In web development, Black Russian (#060517) can be utilized to create a sophisticated and mysterious aesthetic, especially for websites or landing pages related to luxury brands, night-themed applications, or dark mode interfaces. This color is best suited for backgrounds or accent elements when paired with lighter, contrasting text and UI components to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for headers, footers, or decorative sections to add depth and visual interest without sacrificing usability. Its deep, almost black hue evokes a sense of elegance and exclusivity, making it ideal for brands aiming to project a premium image.
Home Theater Design
In interior design, Black Russian (#060517) can be employed to create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere in spaces such as home theaters, studies, or bedrooms. This color works best when used as an accent wall or for furniture pieces, complemented by lighter colors for balance and to prevent the space from feeling too dark or confined. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can enhance the luxurious feel. Soft lighting is essential to create a cozy and inviting ambiance, making it suitable for areas designed for relaxation and entertainment.
High Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, Black Russian (#060517) can be an excellent choice for creating elegant and edgy looks. It works well for evening wear, such as dresses, suits, or accessories, providing a sleek and sophisticated appearance. Combining it with brighter or metallic colors can add a touch of glamour and contrast. This deep, dark shade can also be used in casual wear, such as jackets or pants, to add a touch of mystery and sophistication to everyday outfits.