Black Russian
General Information about #150020
The hex color #150020, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark, desaturated purple. It resides in the purple hue family, leaning towards the violet end of the spectrum. This color evokes a sense of mystery, sophistication, and luxury. Its darkness lends itself to creating dramatic and intimate environments. In the RGB color model, #150020 consists of 8.24% red, 0% green, and 12.55% blue. The CMYK representation is 34.30% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 87.45% black. Due to its low luminance, this color is best used sparingly and in conjunction with lighter colors to provide adequate contrast and prevent visual strain. Its hexadecimal nature makes it great for direct applications on websites.
The color #150020, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its very low luminance results in extremely poor contrast against nearly all background colors, including white. This makes text and other visual elements using this color difficult or impossible for individuals with low vision to perceive. Furthermore, individuals with color vision deficiencies may struggle to distinguish this color from other dark shades. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to avoid using #150020 for text, icons, or other important visual information without providing a much lighter alternative for contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text according to WCAG guidelines. Using tools to check color contrast is highly recommended before deploying content with this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Black Russian can be used sparingly as a background color for sections where a dramatic and luxurious feel is desired. However, it is crucial to pair it with high-contrast text (e.g., white or a light shade of gray) to ensure readability. It can also be employed in subtle gradients to add depth to a design without overwhelming the user with darkness. Avoid using it for interactive elements or large blocks of text due to accessibility concerns.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Russian can be used as an accent color to create a sophisticated and moody atmosphere. Think of it as the color of a dimly lit lounge. It works well in small doses, such as in decorative pillows, artwork, or accent walls. Combining it with metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance its luxurious feel. Balance its intensity with lighter neutrals to prevent the space from feeling too dark and oppressive.
Fashion
In fashion, Black Russian is a dramatic choice for evening wear or statement pieces. A dress or accessory in this color exudes sophistication and mystery. When incorporating it into an outfit, consider pairing it with lighter or brighter colors to create contrast and prevent the look from becoming too somber. Metallic accessories can also complement the depth of this color.