Black Russian
General Information
The hex color code #070317, often referred to as "Black Russian", is a very dark shade of purple leaning towards black. It's composed of 2.75% red, 1.18% green, and 8.63% blue. In the RGB color space, it's represented as (7, 3, 23). The color is typically perceived as a sophisticated and mysterious hue, often associated with elegance and luxury. Due to its low saturation and brightness, it's mostly employed as a background or accent color in design projects where a subtle, dark, and understated aesthetic is desired. The darkness of this color necessitates careful consideration of text and element contrast to ensure accessibility and readability, especially in user interface design or printed materials.
The color #070317, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA standards. Given the near-black nature of #070317, achieving this contrast level necessitates using text colors close to white. It is crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance. Avoid using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links without careful consideration of text color and potential visual impairments. Users with low vision or color blindness may struggle to differentiate elements if contrast is inadequate. Ensure sufficient contrast not only for text, but also for graphical elements and icons, to provide an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #120a2a
A slightly lighter shade of dark purple that provides a bit more visibility while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #212121
A deep charcoal gray that offers improved contrast compared to pure black, making it a more accessible option.
- #000033
This color offers a similar dark feel but with a touch of blue, offering slightly better visibility in some contexts.
Applications
Luxury Web Design
Black Russian (#070317) can be utilized to evoke a sense of mystery and sophistication in web design. It serves as an excellent background color for websites related to luxury goods, night clubs, or artistic portfolios. When combined with gold or silver accents, it creates a high-end and glamorous feel. However, due to its darkness, it's crucial to use contrasting text colors like white or pale yellow to ensure readability and accessibility. It is best suited for situations where a dramatic and impactful visual statement is desired, prioritizing aesthetics while still considering user experience through adequate contrast. This colour could be used for a landing page for a new tech company.
Interior Design: Cozy Atmospheres
In interior design, #070317 can be applied to create an intimate and cozy atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or home theaters, where a darker environment is often preferred. When used on walls, it's best to balance it with lighter-colored furniture and accessories to prevent the room from feeling too small or oppressive. Accent lighting can also enhance the mood and highlight specific features. This color is suitable for those who enjoy a modern and minimalist style, providing a neutral backdrop that allows other design elements to stand out. Its depth adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space if implemented correctly, creating a relaxing mood.
Fashion Industry
This colour may be used in fashion for creating an elegant and mysterious feel. Used for evening wear, it can be combined with lighter materials such as silk or satin to create contrast and visual interest. Accessories in silver or gold can complement the dark shade, adding a touch of glamour. This colour is perfect for creating a sophisticated and timeless look, and can be used for both formal and casual occasions. It is often associated with luxury and exclusivity, making it a popular choice for high-end brands. When combined with the right textures and materials, this colour can create a stunning and memorable impression.