Black Russian
General Information about #160016 (Black Russian)
The hex color #160016, also known as Black Russian, is a dark, muted shade of purple. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 0% green, and 8.63% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 91.37% black. This color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and luxury. Its low luminance value makes it a challenging color to use effectively, especially in contexts where readability and accessibility are paramount. It is important to consider its dark nature when choosing complementary colors and ensuring sufficient contrast for text and other visual elements. This color works best as an accent color rather than a primary color, especially in web design. In fashion, this color can evoke a sense of elegance and drama.
The hex color #160016, a deep, dark shade of purple, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color. Its low luminance value means that text or elements placed on top of it require very light colors to ensure sufficient contrast. 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 meet AA compliance. Using white or very pale shades of gray or yellow would be essential to meet these guidelines. It is crucial to avoid using mid-tone colors, as they will likely fail to provide adequate contrast. For users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, insufficient contrast can make content difficult or impossible to read. Therefore, careful consideration and testing are crucial to ensure that content is accessible to all users. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in evaluating the suitability of color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of purple offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A dark gray can serve as a more neutral alternative with improved legibility when paired with lighter text.
A dark, muted blue could be an alternative when a very dark shade is required and accessibility is prioritised. This provides higher contrast with light text.
Applications
Sophisticated Website Background
In web design, #160016 can be employed to create a sophisticated and mysterious atmosphere. It's suitable for backgrounds in sections where a sense of luxury or exclusivity is desired, such as in portfolios, e-commerce stores selling high-end products, or landing pages aiming to capture attention. When using it, ensure that all text and interactive elements have high contrast ratios. For example, use #160016 as a background for a call-to-action button with text in #FFFFFF (white), or as a section background with text in a light grey like #EEEEEE. This color can be used with care on websites in combination with pastel or neon colors for a vibrant look. Consider the emotions of the users visiting the website.
Gothic Fashion Elegance
In fashion, #160016 evokes a sense of gothic elegance and can be used in clothing designs for evening wear, such as dresses and skirts. It is also suitable for accessories like handbags or hats. When using this color, pair it with silver or gold accents to enhance the luxurious feel. Imagine a velvet dress in this shade, paired with silver jewelry. It can also be used as a base color for prints and patterns, combined with lighter colors for a visually striking effect. Consider using this color in fashion to create a lasting impression.
Interior Design Accent Color
#160016, a color reminiscent of deep space and twilight skies, offers a unique touch in interior design. It can be used in bedrooms for creating a cozy and intimate environment, or in living rooms as an accent wall to evoke a sense of mystery and sophistication. Consider pairing it with metallic elements like copper or gold to enhance the richness of the color. It could also be used in combination with lighter, pastel tones to create a balanced and visually appealing space. This color brings a sense of depth and elegance to any room.