Black Russian
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #09011A represents a very dark shade of indigo, often referred to as 'Black Russian'. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it is composed of 3.53% red, 0.39% green, and 10.2% blue. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, used in printing, it consists of 65.74% cyan, 96.12% magenta, 0% yellow, and 89.8% black. This color is rarely found in natural scenes and is typically associated with artificial lighting or carefully curated design elements. It evokes feelings of sophistication, mystery, and depth. The low saturation and luminance contribute to its subtle and understated nature.
The color #09011A, a very dark shade of indigo, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely low luminance value means that text rendered in this color against a white or light-colored background will likely fail accessibility standards. The contrast ratio will be insufficient for users with visual impairments, making the text difficult or impossible to read. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use this color sparingly and pair it with very light colors to achieve a high contrast ratio. Tools are available online to calculate contrast ratios and verify compliance with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). When using this color for backgrounds, ensure that all text and interactive elements have sufficient contrast. Providing alternative color schemes for users who need them can also improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #09011A can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers, creating a sense of depth and luxury. When used in conjunction with bright, contrasting text and interactive elements, it can establish a visually appealing and professional look. However, attention to accessibility guidelines is paramount to ensure readability for all users. Additionally, this color may be suitable for graphical elements like dividers or icons where high contrast is not essential.
Interior Design
In interior design, #09011A can be used as an accent color to create a sense of drama and sophistication. It works well in small doses, such as on throw pillows, artwork, or a feature wall. Pairing it with lighter, warmer colors like gold or cream can prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. This shade also serves as an excellent backdrop for metallic accents, enhancing their shine and creating a luxurious ambiance.
Fashion
Within fashion, #09011A lends itself well to evening wear and accessories, creating an elegant and mysterious allure. This dark indigo shade can be used for dresses, suits, or even smaller elements like handbags or shoes. Pairing it with lighter and brighter colors or metallic accents elevates the ensemble, while also keeping the overall look balanced and not overly somber. When paired with gemstones it can create striking visual effects.