Black Russian
General Information about #130317
The hex color code #130317, often referred to as 'Black Russian', is a very dark shade of purple. It's composed of 7.45% red, 1.18% green, and 9.02% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:19, G:3, and B:23. Converting this to the CMYK color space yields percentages of C:17.39%, M:86.96%, Y:0.00%, and K:90.98%. This indicates that the color is heavily reliant on black, with a significant amount of magenta to impart the purple undertone. #130317 falls within the range of colors perceived as mysterious, sophisticated, and even somber. It's often associated with elegance and luxury, making it a popular choice in branding and design contexts where a sense of exclusivity is desired. Due to its darkness, it's best used sparingly or paired with lighter colors to create contrast and avoid a visually heavy appearance.
The hex color #130317, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value means that text or interactive elements rendered in this color against a white or light background would have very poor contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Black Russian fails to meet these criteria against most backgrounds, potentially excluding users who require higher contrast to perceive content effectively. Therefore, it is essential to pair this color with very light shades or use it sparingly in design elements where text legibility isn't paramount. Furthermore, relying solely on color to convey information is discouraged; always use alternative cues like labels or icons to ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #28082d
A slightly lighter shade of dark purple offers a similar aesthetic while providing marginally better contrast against light backgrounds, improving readability.
- #333333
A deep charcoal gray provides a neutral alternative that maintains a dark aesthetic but is more versatile and offers better contrast ratios for text and UI elements.
- #0a0a0a
This near black color provides better readability and accessibility than #130317.
Applications
Website Backgrounds and UI Elements
In web development, #130317 can serve as a sophisticated background color for website sections, particularly in portfolios or creative agency sites aiming for a sleek and modern aesthetic. It can also be employed for subtle UI elements such as dividers or borders, adding depth without overwhelming the user interface. However, caution should be exercised when using it for text or interactive components due to accessibility concerns. When used in website design, #130317 pairs well with lighter accent colors, such as off-white or muted gold, to create visual interest and ensure readability. This color contributes to a sense of exclusivity and elegance, making it suitable for brands that want to convey a premium image. Always prioritize accessibility by checking contrast ratios.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Black Russian (#130317) can be used to create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere. It's well-suited for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, adding a touch of sophistication and depth. When paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, it evokes a sense of luxury. The color works particularly well in spaces with ample natural light, preventing the room from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. Consider using it in smaller areas, such as a home office or a reading nook, to create a cozy and enveloping environment. Balance the dark hue with lighter furniture and accessories to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming and to maintain a visually appealing contrast.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #130317 can be used in clothing design, especially for evening wear or formal attire. It can create an elegant and sophisticated look when used in dresses, suits, or accessories like handbags and shoes. The color is often associated with power and mystery, making it a popular choice for designers who want to create a strong and impactful statement. Furthermore, this hex color is suitable for winter garments, providing a timeless and classic look in fashion design. It is very versatile and can be combined with many other colors to give unique style.