Black Russian
General Information about Black Russian (#070218)
The hex color #070218, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark, almost black, shade of purple. It belongs to the cool color family and is characterized by its extremely low luminance, making it appear nearly black to the human eye. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.75% red, 0.78% green, and 9.41% blue. The name 'Black Russian' evokes a sense of mystery and sophistication, hinting at its deep, dark appearance. Colors like this are generally perceived as formal, elegant, and sometimes even melancholic. Understanding its composition and characteristics is essential for designers and artists looking to use it effectively.
The hex color #070218, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against most backgrounds, including white. This lack of contrast makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness, to read text or distinguish elements using this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Black Russian fails to meet these standards against almost any background color, thus rendering content inaccessible. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair #070218 with much lighter colors or to avoid using it for essential textual or interactive elements. Tools for checking color contrast ratios can help ensure compliance with accessibility standards and enhance the user experience for all individuals.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #070218 can be used sparingly as a background color for non-essential decorative elements or in very large headings where readability is less critical. It pairs well with neon or pastel accents to create a modern, edgy aesthetic. However, it should never be used for body text, form labels, or interactive components without careful consideration of contrast ratios and accessibility guidelines. Using it for a website's loading screen may enhance the initial aesthetic while the main content which must conform to accessibility standards loads.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #070218 can represent a sophisticated and mysterious aesthetic. It can be used in evening wear or gothic-inspired designs to convey elegance and boldness. Consider pairing it with silver or dark red accents to enhance the color’s depth. The color can also be used as an accent color, in items such as gloves, scarves and hats.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Russian (#070218) can serve as a dramatic accent color in spaces like home theaters or lounges. It is best used sparingly, perhaps as a feature wall or in decorative elements, rather than as the primary color. Pair it with metallic textures, such as gold or silver, to create a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance. It can also be combined with very light, contrasting colors to balance the dark and add visual interest.