Black Russian
General Information about #150017
The hexadecimal color #150017, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of purple, almost appearing black. It is composed of 8.24% red, 0% green, and 8.63% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as rgb(21, 0, 23). The color has a very low saturation of 100% and a low lightness of 4.5%. In the HSV color space, its hue is 291 degrees, saturation is 100%, and value is 9%. Due to its darkness, this color is often perceived as mysterious or elegant. The name 'Black Russian' suggests an association with sophistication and perhaps a hint of intrigue, reflecting its deep, muted tone. Its properties make it suitable for creating a mood in design.
The color #150017, a very dark, muted purple, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as text or interactive elements. Its extremely low luminance results in poor contrast against almost any background. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Given its darkness, #150017 will likely fail these contrast tests against lighter backgrounds, making content difficult or impossible to read for many users. To improve accessibility, this color should be paired with very light colors or used sparingly in non-essential design elements. Consider using online contrast checkers to assess the specific ratio against chosen background colors and adjusting color choices accordingly to meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e0131
A slightly lighter purple offers a bit more contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray can provide better readability as a background color, especially when paired with lighter text.
- #1c001e
This very dark variant of purple provides better contrast, but remember to check the contrast ratio against your background color!
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #150017 can be employed as a background for sections intended to evoke a sense of mystery or luxury. For example, a website for high-end jewelry might use this color for its product display backgrounds to accentuate the richness of the items. It is crucial, however, to pair it with text in a contrasting light color to ensure readability. Moreover, this color can set the mood for websites for books and movies in the horror or thriller genres. This very dark tone can also be used as an accent color to provide a mysterious feel for a landing page.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, #150017 can serve as a sophisticated choice for evening wear or accessories. A clutch or a pair of heels in this color could add a touch of dark elegance to an outfit, without being as stark as black. Interior designers may use it as an accent wall in a home theater or library to create a cozy, intimate ambiance. It’s also suitable for small decorative items like vases or cushions, especially in spaces with metallic or white accents to provide a visual contrast. In graphic design this color can be used in creating flyers or brochures.
Branding and Packaging
In branding, the use of #150017 can convey sophistication, exclusivity, and a sense of understated luxury. For brands targeting a niche market with high-end products or services, this color can be used in logos, packaging, and marketing materials to communicate quality and prestige. For example, a high-end perfume brand might utilize #150017 in its packaging to evoke a sense of mystery and allure. The color is also suitable for businesses that focus on art and creativity.