Black Russian
General Information about #17001A
The hex color #17001A, often referred to as Black Russian, is a very dark, desaturated shade of purple. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 0% green, and 10.2% blue. This color is predominantly used to create a dark, mysterious, or sophisticated mood. Its hexadecimal representation provides a concise way to define this specific color in digital applications, ensuring consistency across different platforms and devices. The color is not part of the web safe color palette, therefore might render slightly differently on older systems. It is categorized within the range of very dark shades, leaning towards a deep, muted purple.
The hex color #17001A, also known as Black Russian, presents several accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text colors to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Given the darkness of #17001A, only colors approaching white or very light shades of yellow or green are likely to meet these criteria. It's crucial to test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color for essential visual elements without proper contrast, as it can be difficult for users with visual impairments to discern. Using this color requires careful planning and testing to avoid inadvertently creating barriers to access for some users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #280030
A slightly lighter shade, #280030, offers a touch more visibility while maintaining a similar dark, mysterious feel, thus making it slightly more versatile for text contrast.
- #08000a
Using #08000A allows for even darker tones while still providing a subtle difference in shade, creating depth in designs while preserving the dark ambiance.
- #210024
The color #210024 retains a similar tone, yet presents a slightly brighter option. This makes it a slightly more accessible option in scenarios needing more clarity.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Black Russian (#17001A) can serve as a sophisticated background for websites aiming for a high-end or mysterious aesthetic. It pairs well with gold or silver accents and can be used to highlight content sections or create a sense of depth. Due to its dark nature, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain accessibility standards and readability. It is especially effective for brands wanting to convey luxury, sophistication, and a touch of intrigue.
Fashion
In fashion, Black Russian (#17001A) can be used in evening wear or accessories to evoke elegance and mystery. Imagine a velvet gown in this color, accented with subtle metallic embroidery. It's also suitable for accessories like gloves, scarves, or hats. This color works well for those seeking a sophisticated, understated look, and complements both cool and warm skin tones when used thoughtfully. It provides a rich base for layering textures and materials, making it a versatile choice for designers.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Russian can be applied as an accent wall color in spaces seeking a dramatic flair, such as home theaters or studies. When using this color, it is essential to balance the darkness with lighter elements such as bright furniture, artwork, or metallic light fixtures. It is best to use it in combination with softer colors to create a sense of warmth and coziness, preventing the room from appearing too dark and uninviting. This provides a unique and sophisticated look.