Black Russian
General Information about #170318
The hexadecimal color code #170318 represents a very dark, desaturated shade of purple, often referred to as Black Russian. It falls into the range of deep, muted colors that evoke feelings of mystery, sophistication, and understated elegance. In the RGB color model, #170318 is composed of 9.02% red, 1.18% green, and 9.41% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 4% cyan, 87% magenta, 0% yellow, and 91% black. The hue angle is 297.8 degrees, the saturation is 86.6%, and the lightness is 5.3%. This color is commonly used in designs aiming for a subtle, luxurious, or gothic aesthetic. Due to its dark nature, it's crucial to pair it with lighter colors to ensure readability and visual balance.
The hex color #170318, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its very low lightness value makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast with lighter foreground colors. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When used as a background, it is crucial to select a very light foreground color to ensure readability. Using contrast checking tools is highly recommended to ensure the selected color combination meets accessibility standards. Furthermore, consider users with visual impairments who may struggle to distinguish subtle color differences; avoid using this color to convey critical information without providing alternative visual cues or textual descriptions. This color is not suited to applications needing high visibility.
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Applications
Web Design
In web design, #170318 can be employed as a background for sections intended to convey a sense of mystery or luxury. For example, it can be used in the hero section of a website for a high-end brand, paired with gold or silver accents to enhance the opulent feel. Given its dark nature, it's essential to use very light text to ensure readability and accessibility. It is also suitable for creating a dark theme for applications, reducing eye strain in low-light environments.
Fashion and Beauty
In fashion, this color can be utilized for evening wear or accessories, providing a sophisticated and understated elegance. It works well with metallic embellishments or contrasting textures like velvet or silk. For makeup, it can serve as a dramatic base for eyeshadow or as a liner for a bold, gothic look. Consider pairing it with lighter, shimmering shades to balance the intensity and create a striking visual effect. Furthermore, this color can be a great choice for nail polish.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Russian can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decor to add depth and sophistication to a space. It pairs well with lighter, neutral colors such as cream, gray, or white to create a balanced and visually appealing environment. This color is best suited for well-lit rooms, as it can make smaller or darker spaces feel more cramped. It can also be used in combination with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, to create a luxurious and elegant atmosphere.