Black Russian
General Information about Black Russian
The hex color #140219, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of purple. It belongs to the family of near-black colors, often associated with sophistication, mystery, and elegance. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 0.78% green, and 9.8% blue. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, it is made up of 12% cyan, 92% magenta, 0% yellow, and 90% black. This color is typically used in design to convey a sense of luxury, depth, or drama. Its darkness makes it suitable for backgrounds or accents, especially when paired with contrasting colors to enhance visibility. The low saturation gives it a muted quality, preventing it from being overly vibrant or distracting.
The hex color #140219, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its very low luminance value of approximately 0.004 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. 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 for users with visual impairments. Given its dark nature, using #140219 for text necessitates a very light foreground color. Careful consideration must be given to color pairings to avoid causing eye strain or rendering content illegible. Using contrast checking tools is essential to validate the accessibility of any color combination involving #140219. Alternatives might include lighter shades or tints to improve contrast while preserving the intended aesthetic.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Luxurious Web Design
In web design, Black Russian can be employed to create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere. It is suitable for backgrounds or accents where subtlety is desired. It can also be used for elements requiring high focus, such as a buy now button in a luxurious context. However, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements. Consider using it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user. Combining it with gold or silver accents can further enhance its appeal. For example, a website selling high-end jewelry might use #140219 as a background color with gold text to exude opulence and exclusivity. The key is to balance its darkness with lighter, contrasting elements for optimal user experience and accessibility.
Elegant Fashion
In fashion, Black Russian evokes a sense of mystery and elegance. It's well-suited for evening wear, accessories, or as a base color for intricate patterns. Designers might use it for velvet gowns, leather jackets, or sophisticated handbags. It can be paired with contrasting colors like crimson or emerald green to create a striking visual impact. The color lends itself well to both minimalist and maximalist styles, offering versatility in design. A black russian dress may be an exclusive choice for a formal gala.
Sophisticated Interior Design
In interior design, Black Russian provides a strong foundation for creating sophisticated and moody spaces. It can be used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or as a grounding color in a room with lighter elements. Consider pairing it with metallic accents like brass or copper to add warmth and visual interest. It works particularly well in bedrooms or studies, promoting a sense of calm and focus. Integrating textures like velvet or silk can further enhance its luxurious feel. For example, a bedroom with walls painted in #140219, complemented by a velvet headboard and brass lamps, can create a serene and opulent sanctuary.