Black Russian
General Information About #08001B
The hex color #08001B, often referred to as 'Black Russian,' is a very dark shade of purple, almost appearing black to the naked eye. It is composed of 3.14% red, 0% green, and 10.59% blue. In the RGB color space, it is characterized by low values across all three channels, contributing to its darkness. This color sits at the very low end of the luminance spectrum, making it a challenging color to use from an accessibility standpoint. It belongs to the family of dark, muted colors, suitable for creating subtle and sophisticated designs. The color is often associated with elegance, mystery, and understated luxury. In web design and graphic design, it can be used to create a deep and rich background or accent, provided that sufficient contrast is maintained with foreground elements. It is often utilized when aiming for a sleek, modern, or high-end feel.
The hex color #08001B, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance value means it provides insufficient contrast when used as text against a white or light-colored background. This makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to read the content. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use #08001B with a very light color for text or interface elements. Adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements is essential. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Avoid using this color for important interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast. When used decoratively, accessibility concerns are lessened, but it is still a good practice to ensure sufficient contrast with surrounding elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a0033
A slightly lighter shade of dark purple that offers a bit more visibility and contrast.
- #111111
A very dark gray that provides slightly better readability than pure black without being overly bright.
- #000820
Almost as dark, but with a slight blue tint, this color can offer a more sophisticated look while remaining dark and subtle.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #08001B can serve as a background color for header sections or footers, especially when aiming for a dark, sophisticated aesthetic. It pairs well with lighter text colors like off-white or light gray to ensure readability. It can be used sparingly for decorative elements where high contrast isn't critical, adding depth and richness to the overall design. Care must be taken to ensure that interactive elements placed on this background meet accessibility standards for contrast ratios. Consider using it in conjunction with brighter accent colors to create visual interest and guide the user's eye.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #08001B emulates the elegance of a classic black, providing a grounding element. This shade can be utilized as a base color for garments, enabling accessories and other design aspects to stand out. It's appropriate for formal wear like suits, dresses, and evening gowns, creating a sense of mystery and refinement. The dark hue also allows for the strategic use of texture and embellishments, such as sequins, embroidery, or velvet, to introduce visual intrigue without compromising the color's subtlety. It fits perfectly for the creation of dramatic and sophisticated looks.
Interior Design Accent
For interior design, #08001B can be applied to create an intimate and luxurious atmosphere in spaces like home theaters or bedrooms. It's an excellent color choice for accent walls or furniture pieces when combined with lighter, contrasting colors for balance. The color brings depth and richness to a room, evoking a sense of understated luxury. In well-lit spaces, it can serve as a dramatic backdrop for artwork or metallic accents, emphasizing their textures and shine. Use with caution in small rooms, where it may create a feeling of confinement.