Black Russian
General Information about #190019
The hexadecimal color #190019, commonly referred to as Black Russian, is a very dark, muted shade of purple. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.8% red, 0% green, and 9.8% blue. This composition places it within the purplish-black spectrum. The color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and a touch of gothic elegance. Its low luminosity makes it a challenging color to work with in design, as it can easily become overwhelming or difficult to see if not used carefully. Black Russian derives its name from the cocktail, and shares similar characteristics in terms of richness and depth. Because it is nearly black, it can provide a neutral backdrop that allows other colors to stand out, although accessibility concerns must be considered.
The color #190019, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its extremely dark nature. With very low luminance, it offers insufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds commonly used in web design. This lack of contrast can make text and interactive elements difficult, if not impossible, for users with visual impairments to discern. Individuals with low vision or color blindness will struggle to perceive content rendered in this color, leading to a degraded user experience. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to avoid using #190019 as a primary text color or for essential graphical elements. When it is used, it should be paired with very light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or light gray (#D3D3D3) to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify adherence to these guidelines.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #290029
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark, mysterious feel.
- #330033
A dark purple that offers a touch more visibility and can be used in combination with lighter accent colors.
- #333333
This grey is dark enough to provide a similar aesthetic, but retains enough brightness to be more easily visible, improving accessibility.
Applications
Sophisticated Web Design Accents
In web design, Black Russian (#190019) can be used sparingly to create a sophisticated and mysterious ambiance. It's best suited for background accents or non-essential graphical elements, rather than primary text or interactive components. For instance, it could serve as a dark overlay on images or a subtle background color for a website section intended to convey exclusivity or luxury. When using #190019 in web design, it's crucial to prioritize accessibility by ensuring sufficient contrast with foreground elements. Pair it with light text colors like white or off-white, and use contrast checking tools to verify that the contrast ratio meets WCAG guidelines. Proper use can create a visually stunning design without compromising usability.
Elegant and Gothic Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Black Russian (#190019) embodies a sense of deep elegance and gothic charm. It can be utilized in clothing designs to create a bold and mysterious statement, particularly in evening wear or formal attire. Imagine a velvet gown in this shade, exuding opulence and intrigue. The color also lends itself well to accessories like handbags, shoes, or jewelry, where it can add a touch of sophistication and darkness. When incorporating #190019 into fashion, consider pairing it with lighter, contrasting colors like silver or gold to create visual interest and prevent the overall look from appearing too heavy or monotonous. Its depth makes it a versatile choice for those seeking a unique and impactful aesthetic.
Interior Design: Dramatic Accents
This dark, intriguing shade can be used to create dramatic accent walls or as a base color for furniture in spaces where a bold and luxurious ambiance is desired. It can be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its richness. Alternatively, incorporating lighter shades of purple or grey can help balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling too enclosed. Careful consideration of lighting is essential to ensure that the color's depth is showcased effectively without making the space feel too dim or oppressive. Accessories in complementary colors can also add visual interest and prevent the space from becoming monotonous.