Black Russian
General Information about #15011A (Black Russian)
The hexadecimal color code #15011A, often referred to as Black Russian, is a dark, muted shade of purple. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.24% red, 0.39% green, and 10.2% blue. This particular combination results in a deep, almost black color with subtle purple undertones. Colors like this are often associated with sophistication, mystery, and elegance. In the CMYK color model, #15011A is composed of 19.42% cyan, 96.15% magenta, 0% yellow, and 89.8% black. The dominance of magenta and black contributes to its dark and slightly purplish appearance. Due to its low brightness and saturation, #15011A is generally not recommended for use as a primary color in designs where readability is critical. However, it can be effectively used as an accent color or background element to create a sense of depth and sophistication. The color is most used in beauty, fashion and interiour design.
The color #15011A, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely low luminance makes it difficult to perceive against most backgrounds, leading to poor readability. Text or interactive elements using this color require careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is necessary for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with moderate visual impairments. Black Russian falls far short of these requirements when paired with many common background colors, including white or light grays. To improve accessibility, developers should avoid using #15011A for text or important interface elements without providing a sufficiently light background color. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Additionally, providing alternative color schemes that offer higher contrast can greatly enhance the user experience for individuals with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #220827
A slightly lighter shade provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark, sophisticated feel.
- #333333
A dark gray offers improved readability compared to #15011A, making it suitable for text elements.
- #280330
This alternative provides a higher contrast ratio, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Black Russian can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a sense of elegance and sophistication. When used as a background color for these elements, it should be paired with light-colored text and icons to ensure readability and accessibility. The dark hue can provide a strong visual anchor for the page, drawing the user's eye to key navigation areas. Additionally, consider using subtle gradients or textures within the Black Russian background to add depth and visual interest without compromising usability. For example, a very subtle noise texture or a radial gradient that subtly lightens towards the center can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal without reducing contrast.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Black Russian can be used as a base color for creating dramatic and sophisticated outfits. It works well for evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and formal wear, providing a luxurious and mysterious feel. This color can be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver to add a touch of glamour, or with jewel-toned accessories for a bold and eye-catching look. Consider using fabrics with subtle textures, such as velvet or satin, to enhance the richness of the color. Black Russian can also be used in accessories like handbags and shoes to add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Russian can serve as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It is well-suited for creating a dramatic focal point on walls or as a background color for artwork and decorations. This color can be combined with lighter shades like beige, cream, or light gray to create a balanced and visually appealing space. Use it sparingly to prevent the room from feeling too dark or claustrophobic. Consider using Black Russian for accent walls, furniture pieces, or decorative items to introduce a touch of elegance and luxury.