Black Russian
General Information about Black Russian (#100020)
#100020, known as Black Russian, is a very dark, muted shade of purple. In the RGB color model, it consists of 6.27% red, 0% green, and 12.55% blue. This composition results in a color that leans heavily towards the blue end of the spectrum, with a minimal presence of red and no green. The color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and understated elegance. Its hexadecimal representation, #100020, allows for precise use in digital applications, ensuring consistency across various platforms. Black Russian's deep and somber tone makes it suitable for creating a sense of depth or drama in visual designs. It is important to use #100020 thoughtfully, balancing it with lighter hues to avoid an overly dark or oppressive aesthetic. #100020 belongs to the family of dark purples.
The hex color #100020, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against standard light backgrounds, making text or graphical elements using this color difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for ensuring readability. To improve accessibility, it's essential to pair #100020 with very light colors, such as whites or light yellows, to achieve a contrast ratio that meets at least the minimum requirements for WCAG AA compliance (4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid using this color for essential information or interactive elements without careful consideration of its impact on users with low vision or color blindness. Providing alternative color schemes or user-adjustable contrast settings can also enhance the accessibility of content using this dark color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #100020 can be employed as a background color for sections where a strong, muted feel is desired, such as footers or non-interactive banners. However, it's imperative to use it sparingly and always ensure that any text or interactive elements placed on this background have sufficient contrast. For instance, bright white or light yellow text would be necessary to ensure readability. Furthermore, #100020 can be used for subtle accents or dividers to add depth to a design without overwhelming the user interface, maintaining a balance between aesthetics and usability. Avoid using this for primary navigation elements due to its inherent low visibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, #100020 can be used to create a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. It works well in spaces designed for relaxation, such as home theaters or studies. This color can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative elements to evoke a sense of luxury and depth. When using #100020, it's crucial to balance it with lighter colors and textures to prevent the room from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. Accents of gold, silver, or deep reds can complement the color, enhancing its richness and creating a visually appealing space. Consider using the color in smaller areas to avoid overpowering the design.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #100020 can be utilized in garments or accessories to introduce an element of subtle elegance. It's well-suited for formal wear, such as evening dresses or tailored suits, providing a sophisticated alternative to traditional black. When paired with lighter fabrics or contrasting textures like silk or velvet, it can add depth and visual interest to an outfit. Accessories like handbags, shoes, or scarves in #100020 can also serve as understated accents to complete a refined look. Due to its very dark nature it is most often used in combination with brighter and vibrant colors.