Black Russian
General Information about #12001E
The hex color #12001E, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark, desaturated shade of purple. It belongs to the range of colors that are perceived as near black, owing to its very low lightness value. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 7.06% red, 0% green, and 11.76% blue. Its darkness makes it challenging for use in designs where legibility is important, unless contrasted with very light colors. The color evokes feelings of mystery, sophistication, and depth, often associated with the night sky or deep, unexplored spaces. Due to the absence of green in its composition, the color tends towards the cooler side of the spectrum.
The hex color #12001E, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its extremely low luminance value means that it offers very little contrast against similarly dark backgrounds. This lack of contrast can make it difficult for users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness, to read text or distinguish elements on a screen. Web developers should avoid using #12001E for text or interactive elements unless paired with a very light color to ensure sufficient contrast, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. These guidelines recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using contrast checking tools is essential to verify the accessibility of color combinations involving #12001E.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #12001E can be used sparingly as a background color for specific sections or as an accent color to create a sense of depth and mystery. It pairs well with lighter colors like creams, golds, or light purples to achieve a balanced and visually appealing design. However, due to its low visibility, it should not be used for large blocks of text or essential interactive elements. It is best suited for decorative elements or areas where user interaction is minimal.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, #12001E can be used as a deep, dramatic shade for eyeshadows, eyeliners, or nail polishes. Its dark and mysterious quality makes it suitable for creating bold and edgy looks. It can also be incorporated into packaging designs to convey a sense of luxury and sophistication. The color is often associated with evening wear and special occasions.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #12001E can be used as a base color for garments or as an accent color in accessories. Its dark and elegant nature makes it suitable for creating sophisticated and timeless looks. It is often used in evening wear, outerwear, and accessories such as handbags and shoes. The color can be paired with lighter colors or metallics to create contrast and visual interest.