Black Russian
General Information
#19001A, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark shade of purple that is close to black. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.8% red, 0% green, and 10.2% blue. This composition results in a deep, muted color that evokes feelings of sophistication and mystery. The color is more commonly named Eggplant. Because of the very low percentage of each color component, the perceived brightness of this color is minimal. The color is often associated with luxury, elegance, and the night. In terms of color theory, #19001A sits within the purple family, leaning towards the darker end of the spectrum. Its unique combination of red and blue creates a complex and intriguing shade.
The hex color #19001A, also known as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance value results in very poor contrast against white text, making it difficult for users to read. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. #19001A fails to meet these standards against almost any light-colored background. Therefore, it should be used sparingly, if at all, for text. If this color is crucial to the design, ensure that text is displayed in very large sizes with bold font weights to partially compensate. Pairing it with significantly lighter colors for graphical elements or borders can improve overall accessibility. It's crucial to test any color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools to ensure compliance with web accessibility standards, particularly for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #280029
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar dark and sophisticated feel.
- #330a34
A color with a hint of gray to soften the intensity and improve readability when used as a background.
- #301934
A deep purple color that maintains a similar dark quality, but introduces more luminosity and improves contrast.
Applications
Fashion Design
This color can be used in fashion design for creating elegant and mysterious garments. Imagine a velvet gown in this shade, paired with silver or dark gray accessories. It is ideal for evening wear, adding a touch of sophistication and drama. Also, it can be implemented in smaller accessories such as clutch bags, belts or gloves to make a statement. Its depth makes it an excellent choice for creating unique and eye-catching looks, especially when combined with complementary colors like pale gold or a light lavender.
Interior Design
In interior design, #19001A can be used as an accent color to add depth and richness to a space. For example, it can be applied to a feature wall in a living room or bedroom to create a focal point. Paired with lighter colors like beige, cream, or light gray, it can create a balanced and sophisticated atmosphere. Furthermore, this color can be used for decorative items such as cushions, curtains, or lampshades to add a touch of elegance. The color is perfect for spaces where a sense of luxury and intimacy is desired.
Web Design
In web design, #19001A can be used sparingly for backgrounds or accents, provided sufficient contrast with text and other elements is ensured. It could be effective for headers or footers on a website, particularly when paired with lighter text or graphical elements. The color provides a unique and sophisticated feel to the webpage. When using such a dark shade, it is essential to prioritize accessibility and ensure that all text is readable and meets WCAG guidelines. It can also be used for hover effects or small graphical elements to add a subtle touch of elegance.