Black Russian
General Information about #160318
The hex color code #160318, often referred to as Black Russian, represents a very dark shade of purple in the RGB color model. It is composed of 8.63% red, 1.18% green, and 9.41% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 8.13% cyan, 87.41% magenta, 0% yellow, and 90.59% black. This color evokes a sense of mystery, depth, and sophistication, often associated with luxury and elegance. Due to its dark nature, it is frequently used in designs where a subtle yet impactful statement is desired. It is essential to consider contrast and readability when using this color in web or print applications, typically requiring lighter text or design elements to ensure accessibility.
The color #160318, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance. With such a dark hue, providing sufficient contrast against text or other interactive elements is crucial for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using #160318 as a background color necessitates very light foreground colors, such as whites or near-whites, to meet these contrast requirements. It is also important to avoid using this color for elements that convey critical information without sufficient contrast. Furthermore, consider offering users the ability to adjust color schemes to improve readability and overall accessibility. Thoroughly testing color combinations with accessibility tools is essential to ensure compliance and an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #220524
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray that offers improved readability compared to the nearly black #160318.
- #201022
A dark purple that gives a dark, mysterious feel, and offers a very slight advantage in contrast ratio.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #160318 can be used as a background color for sections where a dark, dramatic feel is desired, such as headers or footers. To ensure readability, pair it with light-colored text and avoid using it for large blocks of content. It's also suitable for accent elements, such as lines or borders, to add a subtle touch of darkness. Consider using it in conjunction with brighter colors to create a visually striking contrast. Be cautious about accessibility to people with low vision as explained above.
Fashion, Beauty and Interior Design
In fashion, #160318 embodies sophistication and elegance. It can be used as the base color for garments or accessories, providing a versatile backdrop for bolder accents. A black russian dress paired with brighter accessories can create a dramatic look, while in interior design, this color can create a moody atmosphere when used on walls or furniture. In beauty, it can be used for eyeshadows or eyeliners.
Graphic Design
In graphic design, #160318 can be used to create a dark and elegant theme for posters, brochures, or digital artwork. Its deep hue provides a sense of mystery and can effectively highlight brighter elements. It is suitable for backgrounds, text elements, or accent colors. Use it in combination with brighter elements to create visual impact. When using it for text, use colors of white or light grey to ensure readability.