Black Russian
General Information about #0A001A
The hex color #0A001A, often referred to as "Black Russian," is a very dark shade of purple, close to black. It resides in the realm of deep, muted tones, evoking a sense of mystery and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.92% red, 0% green, and 10.2% blue. This composition results in a color that leans towards the violet spectrum but is heavily subdued. The color is frequently used to convey feelings of luxury, depth, and exclusivity. Its inherent darkness means it's best used sparingly or paired with lighter colors to ensure visual balance and readability. The color also belongs to the family of dark purples and can be used in designs that want to incorporate a subtle touch of royalty.
The hex color #0A001A, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. Its very dark nature results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and interactive elements difficult to perceive for users, especially those with visual impairments. Adherence to WCAG guidelines is crucial when using this color. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is necessary to meet Level AA compliance. For Level AAA, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Therefore, pairing #0A001A with a very light color, such as white or a pale yellow, is essential to ensure readability and usability. Avoid using it for crucial interface components or small text elements without careful consideration of contrast. Providing alternative high-contrast themes can significantly improve accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #140028
A slightly lighter shade of dark purple that offers a bit more visibility and contrast compared to #0A001A.
- #212121
A dark gray that provides better contrast against white backgrounds than #0A001A, making it a safer choice for text.
- #000033
A dark blue that can be used to give the app an alternative dark aesthetic.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #0A001A can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites aiming for a luxurious or mysterious feel. It's particularly suitable for portfolios, creative agency sites, or entertainment platforms. Use it sparingly, focusing on areas where you want to create depth or highlight other design elements. Pair it with lighter accent colors to ensure readability and visual balance. For instance, white or light gold text on a #0A001A background can create an elegant contrast. Remember to optimize for accessibility by providing high-contrast options or ensuring sufficient color contrast according to WCAG guidelines.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #0A001A can be used as a primary color for evening wear or formal attire. Its dark, almost black appearance lends an air of elegance and sophistication. Consider using it for velvet or silk fabrics to enhance its richness. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories such as handbags, shoes, or jewelry. When combined with metallic elements like gold or silver, #0A001A creates a visually striking contrast that exudes luxury. For makeup, it can be used for eyeliner or eyeshadow to create a dramatic, smoky eye effect.
Cosmetics and Beauty
In the beauty industry, #0A001A can be a great color choice for nail polishes and eyeliners. It creates an alluring, mysterious, and dramatic look that is perfect for special occasions or for everyday use. When creating a brand identity for the beauty industry, use this color to communicate boldness, style and creativity. It can be applied to brands that market to confident consumers.