Black Russian
General Information about #120218
The hex color #120218, often referred to as "Black Russian", is a very dark shade of purple, almost appearing black to the casual observer. It belongs to the family of purple hues but possesses a significantly low saturation and brightness, resulting in its deep, muted appearance. The color is composed of 7.1% red, 0.8% green, and 9.4% blue. It exhibits a certain depth and mysteriousness due to its darkness, making it suitable for creating sophisticated and understated designs. It is crucial to note that, due to its high darkness, using this color requires careful consideration of contrast to ensure legibility, particularly in textual applications. This color can convey a sense of elegance, formality, or even a hint of intrigue, depending on the context in which it is used.
The hex color #120218, a very dark, desaturated purple, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it necessitates a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold/18pt regular). Due to its darkness, #120218 struggles to achieve this with many background colors. It's crucial to use contrast checking tools during design and development to ensure sufficient contrast. Consider using it sparingly for decorative elements, rather than essential information, or paired only with nearly white hues. Alternatives include brighter colors or shades of purple to make content accessible for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #120218 can serve as a background color for dark-themed websites, creating a sense of mystery and sophistication. It can be paired with lighter accent colors like light grays or muted blues to provide contrast and visual interest. However, it should be used judiciously for text as it requires a very light foreground color to ensure readability. This color is also suitable for creating visually stunning loading screens or subtle animations that add a touch of elegance to the user experience. It is well-suited for websites related to gaming, music, or other creative endeavors.
Interior Design
In interior design, #120218 can be used to create a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. It can be applied to accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a focal point that adds depth and richness to the space. When paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, it can evoke a sense of luxury and opulence. The color also works well in home theaters or entertainment rooms, enhancing the immersive viewing experience. Consider using it in smaller doses in rooms with limited natural light to avoid making the space feel too dark or closed off.
Fashion Design
This color can be used for elegant clothing designs.