Black Russian
General Information about #0A0219
The hex color code #0A0219, often referred to as 'Black Russian,' is a very dark, slightly desaturated shade of purple. It resides in the range of near-black colors and is characterized by minimal lightness and saturation. In the RGB color model, its components are approximately 3.92% red, 0.78% green, and 9.8% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 59.39% cyan, 92.0% magenta, 0.0% yellow, and 90.2% black. This color evokes feelings of mystery, elegance, and sophistication. It's a very dark shade, making it suitable for backgrounds where a strong contrast is desired with lighter foreground elements. Due to its darkness, it is important to ensure adequate contrast for accessibility when used in user interfaces or design work.
The hex color #0A0219, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance value means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background require very light foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet Level AA compliance. Using #0A0219 could easily fall short of these ratios with many common text colors, making content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Therefore, it's crucial to use contrast checking tools during the design phase and carefully select foreground colors, like white or very pale yellows, to achieve the needed contrast. Also, avoid using this color for critical interactive elements without very clear visual cues, as users might miss them due to the lack of contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #140a26
A slightly lighter shade offers better contrast while retaining a similar dark and sophisticated feel.
- #212121
A dark gray provides improved legibility and accessibility compared to pure Black Russian.
- #1e0030
This dark purple provides a bit of color while still remaining dark and subtle. It will provide a higher contrast ratio when compared to #0A0219.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #0A0219 can be employed as a background color for headers or footers, particularly in websites aiming for a modern and sophisticated aesthetic. Due to its dark nature, it pairs well with lighter text and accent colors to create visual interest. It can also be used for subtle UI elements like dividers or borders, adding depth without overwhelming the design. However, careful attention to contrast ratios is essential to ensure readability and accessibility for all users. Employing this color judiciously can contribute to a sleek and contemporary look.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #0A0219 can serve as an elegant accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative elements. It works well in creating a dramatic and intimate atmosphere in spaces like home theaters or bedrooms. It is recommended to balance the dark color with lighter shades and textures to prevent the room from feeling too enclosed. Consider using it on an accent wall paired with lighter, neutral-colored furniture and bright, contrasting accessories to add a touch of sophistication.
Fashion and Beauty
In fashion, #0A0219 can be used for clothing, accessories, or makeup to create a mysterious and elegant look. A dress in this color could be accessorized with silver or gold jewelry for a striking contrast. As eye shadow, it can add depth and smokiness to the eyes. It's a versatile color that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It is best paired with lighter or brighter colors to provide some contrast.