Black Russian
General Information about Black Russian (#090317)
#090317, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark, almost black, shade of violet. It's composed of 3.53% red, 1.18% green, and 9.02% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (9, 3, 17). Its HSL values are 260 degrees for hue, 64% saturation, and 4% lightness. This places it firmly in the violet spectrum, though its darkness heavily mutes the color. The color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and elegance due to its resemblance to black but with a subtle hint of color. It is not a commonly used color due to its darkness, and care must be taken to ensure there is sufficient contrast when using it in design. The Black Russian color name is derived from the Black Russian cocktail.
The hex color #090317, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low lightness value results in very poor contrast against typical light backgrounds, like white. Text rendered in this color would be nearly unreadable for most users, including those with normal vision. It fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios, particularly Success Criterion 1.4.3 (Contrast Minimum). To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair #090317 with much lighter colors to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Alternatively, consider using #090317 sparingly, perhaps for decorative elements rather than essential information. Using it for interactive elements or key information is not recommended without careful consideration of contrast.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #090317 can be utilized to create a sophisticated and mysterious ambiance. It is ideally suited as a background color for showcasing high-end products or services, particularly in the technology, luxury goods, or entertainment sectors. When combined with a contrasting vibrant color for text and interactive elements, it can evoke a sense of exclusivity and intrigue. However, it should be used judiciously to avoid overwhelming the user experience and must adhere to accessibility guidelines by ensuring sufficient contrast with foreground elements.
Fashion Design
#090317 finds application in the fashion industry, especially in creating elegant evening wear or accessories. Its deep, dark tone can provide a dramatic backdrop for embellishments such as sequins or metallic accents. It can also be used as a primary color in minimalist designs, conveying a sense of understated luxury and sophistication. The color's intensity complements various skin tones, making it a versatile choice for clothing and accessories.
Interior Design
In interior design, #090317 can be used to create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere. It works well in accent walls, home theaters, or studies, providing a sense of depth and enclosure. When paired with lighter colors such as cream or gold, it can create a luxurious and inviting space. It is best used in rooms with ample natural light or carefully planned artificial lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dark and closed in. It can also be combined with textures, such as velvet or leather, to enhance its visual appeal.