Black Russian
General Information
The hex color #0A0420, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of purple, almost black. It belongs to the family of dark, muted colors and is composed of 3.92% red, 1.57% green, and 12.55% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents very low values across all channels, contributing to its darkness. This color evokes feelings of mystery, sophistication, and depth. It is often associated with luxury, elegance, and the night. Due to its dark nature, #0A0420 is not commonly used as a primary color but rather as an accent or background element to create contrast and visual interest. Understanding its composition and the emotions it evokes is key to effectively utilizing this color in design and other creative applications.
The hex color #0a0420, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its very dark hue results in extremely low contrast against virtually any background, especially white. This poses a serious readability issue for text. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. Using this color for text or important interface elements without a very light foreground color (ideally white or near-white) would fail accessibility standards. It's strongly recommended to avoid using #0a0420 for primary interactive elements like buttons or links unless paired with extremely light text and tested thoroughly with accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Designers should prioritize contrast ratios of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG AA standards. When using this color as a background, ensure that all foreground elements meet these contrast requirements. Careful consideration and testing are vital to avoid creating barriers for users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0A0420 can be employed as a background color for sections where a dramatic or mysterious feel is desired. However, it’s crucial to pair it with very light or vibrant text to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for header backgrounds or as a subtle accent color in footers. This color can effectively set a specific mood or tone for a website, particularly in themes related to technology, science fiction, or nighttime environments. Careful attention must be paid to contrast ratios to meet accessibility guidelines and avoid visual strain for users.
Interior Design
In interior design, #0A0420 can be used as an accent wall color in a room with minimalist decor, creating a sophisticated and modern look. It's particularly suitable for spaces where a sense of tranquility and depth is desired, such as bedrooms or studies. To balance the darkness, incorporate light-colored furniture and accessories, and ensure ample lighting to prevent the room from feeling too gloomy. Consider using metallic accents in gold or silver to complement the richness of the dark hue and add a touch of luxury.
Beauty
This color can be used in beauty products such as dark nail polish or as a base for eyeshadow palettes, lending a bold and sophisticated edge to makeup looks. The deep, mysterious shade works well for creating dramatic smoky eyes or elegant nail art. It pairs well with metallic or glittery accents to add contrast and visual interest. Furthermore, this color can be incorporated into packaging design to convey a sense of luxury, exclusivity, and modernity.