Black Russian
General Information about Black Russian (#140218)
The hex color #140218, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of purple. It belongs to the color family of purples and violets, exhibiting a deep, rich tone. The color is composed of 8% red, 1% green, and 9% blue. In the RGB color space, this corresponds to the values R:20, G:2, B:24. In the CMYK color space, it is composed of 17% cyan, 92% magenta, 0% yellow and 91% black. This color is often associated with elegance, sophistication, and mystery. It can be used to create a sense of depth and drama in various applications. However, due to its darkness, it's important to use it carefully to ensure readability and accessibility.
The hex color #140218, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its extremely low luminance results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to discern text or other elements rendered in this color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Black Russian is unlikely to meet these standards against most background colors, necessitating careful consideration of color pairings. To improve accessibility, consider using this color sparingly, pairing it with very light shades, or implementing alternative design solutions like increased font sizes, thicker lines, or interactive elements that provide additional visual cues. Providing alternative color themes can also improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #280430
A slightly lighter shade of purple can offer better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray provides a more neutral and accessible alternative for backgrounds or text.
- #2f1b0f
A dark brown with subtle red undertones can evoke a similar richness without being as visually demanding.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Black Russian can be utilized as a background color for headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, due to its dark nature, it is crucial to pair it with contrasting text colors such as white or light yellow to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be used for creating a dark mode theme, providing a comfortable viewing experience in low-light environments. Careful consideration should be given to the overall color palette to maintain visual harmony and avoid overwhelming the user.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Russian can be applied to accent walls or furniture pieces to add a touch of drama and elegance to a room. It complements metallic accents such as gold or silver, creating a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere. When using this color in interior spaces, it's important to balance it with lighter colors and ample lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or oppressive. Consider using it in bedrooms or home theaters where a darker ambience is desired.
Fashion
In fashion, Black Russian can be used for creating bold and stylish outfits. It can be incorporated into dresses, suits, or accessories to add a touch of sophistication and mystery. When wearing this color, it's important to consider the overall styling and choose complementary colors to create a balanced and visually appealing look. Metallic accessories or pops of bright colors can add contrast and prevent the outfit from appearing too monotonous. Consider using this color for evening wear or special occasions.