Black Russian
About Black Russian (#120219)
The hex color #120219, often referred to as "Black Russian," is a very dark, almost black, shade of violet. It resides in the deep end of the color spectrum, characterized by its minimal luminance and strong blue undertones. This color evokes feelings of mystery, sophistication, and elegance. Its darkness lends itself to creating a sense of depth and intrigue in various applications. From a technical standpoint, #120219 is composed of 7.1% red, 0.8% green, and 9.8% blue. This composition results in a muted, shadowy hue that absorbs most light. Its low saturation and value contribute to its somber and subdued appearance. Black Russian is often used to create a dramatic contrast when paired with lighter colors.
The hex color #120219, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very low luminance value of approximately 0.005 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast with text or other foreground elements. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. Given the darkness of #120219, pairing it with lighter colors is crucial. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of gray are recommended to meet these contrast requirements. However, even with white text, careful consideration must be given to font size and weight to maximize legibility. Using this color as a background for large blocks of text should be avoided, and alternative, higher-contrast color schemes should be considered to improve the overall user experience and accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Black Russian can be used sparingly for decorative elements like borders, subtle background accents, or as a highlight color when paired with much lighter text. Due to its low visibility, it should not be used for crucial interactive elements. The dark and mysterious nature of the color makes it suitable for websites with a gothic or high-end luxury aesthetic. It is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when using this color with text or other important visual elements to maintain accessibility and readability. Thoughtful use of spacing and strategic placement is key to making this color work effectively in a design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Russian can be used to create a dramatic and sophisticated atmosphere. Consider using it as an accent wall color in a room with ample natural light, or for furniture pieces in a minimalist setting. The color can be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver for a luxurious feel, or with lighter neutral colors to create a balanced contrast. Soft textures such as velvet or faux fur can complement the dark hue and add depth to the design. The color is ideal for creating a cozy and intimate ambiance in spaces like home theaters or reading rooms.
Dark Fashion and Beauty
In fashion, Black Russian can be used as a base color for creating elegant and mysterious looks. The color can be used in clothing, accessories, and footwear, and is often paired with other dark colors or metallic accents. Black Russian is especially popular in gothic and alternative fashion styles, and can also be used to create chic and sophisticated evening wear. The color is versatile and timeless, making it a staple in many wardrobes. Use this color for subtle eyeshadows or gothic lipsticks.