Black Russian
General Information about Black Russian
The hex color #13001A, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark, desaturated purple. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 7.45% red, 0% green, and 10.2% blue. This translates to a dark, muted shade that is close to black but with a subtle purple undertone. The color's name, Black Russian, evokes a sense of sophistication and mystery, likely derived from the similarly named cocktail. Its hexadecimal representation, #13001A, provides a standardized way to define and use this color across various digital platforms and applications, from web design to graphic arts. Colors like #13001A are often used to create a sense of depth, drama, or luxury in designs. Its use, however, requires careful consideration of contrast and accessibility, as its darkness can pose challenges for readability and visibility, especially when used as a text color or against similarly dark backgrounds.
The hex color #13001A, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very dark nature. Its extremely low luminance results in poor contrast against almost any background color, especially lighter shades. This makes it difficult for individuals with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness, to discern text or graphical elements displayed in this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background to ensure readability. Black Russian is unlikely to meet these standards against most backgrounds, necessitating careful consideration of color pairings. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to avoid using #13001A for essential information or interactive elements without a sufficiently light and contrasting background. Employing tools that assess color contrast ratios can help determine if a chosen color combination meets accessibility requirements. Furthermore, providing alternative text descriptions for images or icons using this color can enhance accessibility for screen reader users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #280033
A slightly lighter shade of dark purple, providing a bit more contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray that offers better readability against light backgrounds compared to #13001A.
- #260033
This color is a bit brighter and creates slightly better contrast for readability.
Applications
Web Design Background
Black Russian (#13001A) can serve as a sophisticated background color in web design, particularly when aiming for a dark and mysterious aesthetic. It's suitable for portfolios, personal websites, or artistic showcases where the goal is to create a sense of depth and intrigue. However, it must be paired carefully with contrasting text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. For instance, using a bright, contrasting color like white or yellow for text can make the content stand out against the dark background. Additionally, this color can be incorporated into website headers or footers to provide a visually striking element.
Fashion Accent Color
In the realm of fashion, Black Russian can be used as an accent color in clothing designs, adding a touch of elegance and mystery. It can be incorporated into patterns, trims, or as the primary color for accessories such as scarves or handbags. When used in clothing, this color can create a slimming effect due to its dark nature. The dark shade is frequently utilized in gothic-inspired designs.
Cosmetics and Interiour
Black Russian can be utilized in cosmetics, particularly in lipsticks, nail polishes, and eyeshadows. It can provide a dramatic and bold look, suitable for evening wear or special occasions. In interior design, Black Russian can serve as an accent wall color or be incorporated into furniture and decor items to create a moody and sophisticated atmosphere. Dark colors can be used in minimalist or goth interior design.