Black Russian
General Information about #14011A
#14011A, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of purple, almost black. It belongs to the family of purples and has very low saturation and luminance. This color evokes feelings of mystery, sophistication, and luxury, often associated with nighttime and elegance. In a technical context, its hexadecimal representation is #14011A, indicating its composition of red, green, and blue light components. This hex code translates to RGB values of 20 red, 1 green, and 26 blue. In the CMYK color model, which is used for printing, its approximate values are 23% cyan, 96% magenta, 0% yellow, and 90% black. Its unique blend makes it a versatile color for creating subtle and impactful designs.
The color #14011A, a very dark, desaturated purple, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of approximately 0.003 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast with lighter text or interface elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Due to its dark nature, only very light colors will likely pass these contrast thresholds. Therefore, designers must carefully consider color pairings. Using lighter shades of yellow, white, or light gray for text or interactive elements over this background is crucial. Avoid using this color for critical visual information or elements that require fine detail, as its darkness can obscure them, potentially leading to a poor user experience, especially for users with visual impairments. Proper testing with accessibility tools is highly recommended to ensure compliance and usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #280330
A slightly lighter shade of purple that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray that offers improved readability and accessibility compared to the original color.
- #3f0071
A deep indigo that can be used as an alternative while retaining a sense of richness and sophistication.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #14011A can be used to create a sophisticated and mysterious atmosphere. It's suitable for backgrounds in sections where you want to convey luxury or exclusivity, such as a premium service landing page or a portfolio showcasing high-end products. To ensure readability, pair it with light-colored text and interactive elements. Consider using it in combination with subtle animations or parallax scrolling to enhance the user experience. This color can also be effective for creating a dark mode option for websites or applications, providing a comfortable viewing experience in low-light environments.
Interior Design
In interior design, #14011A can be used as an accent color to add depth and drama to a room. It can be applied to walls in a home theater or study to create a cozy and intimate setting. Pairing it with metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance its luxurious feel. It's essential to balance this dark color with lighter elements, such as light-colored furniture or artwork, to prevent the space from feeling too heavy or claustrophobic. Consider using it in combination with textures like velvet or silk to create a rich and tactile experience.
Fashion
In fashion, #14011A can be used to create elegant and sophisticated looks. It works well for evening wear, such as dresses or suits, and can be paired with accessories in metallic tones or jewel colors. This color can also be used in casual wear to add a touch of edginess and intrigue. It is a great color for accessories like handbags and shoes. It evokes a sense of mystery and refinement, making it suitable for creating timeless and memorable outfits.