Black Russian
General Information About #190116
The hexadecimal color code #190116 represents a very dark shade of purple, almost appearing as a very deep, desaturated black. This color, sometimes referred to as 'Black Russian', carries an air of mystery and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.8% red, 0.4% green, and 8.6% blue. Its primary attribute is its low luminance, which means it reflects very little light, making it appear incredibly dark. It's often used in design contexts to evoke feelings of elegance, luxury, or a sense of the unknown. Due to its deepness, it can pose accessibility challenges, requiring careful consideration of contrast ratios when used with text or other interactive elements. It has a subtle warmth due to the slightly higher red component. The CMYK values are C:0, M:97, Y:12, K:90, indicating a high concentration of black ink, which is expected given the darkness of the color. The HSL values are H:308, S:98, L:5, illustrating that it's a highly saturated color with very low lightness.
The hex color #190116, often referred to as Black Russian, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. Its dark nature means that text rendered in white or lighter shades may offer sufficient contrast, but careful consideration is paramount. Using this color as a background necessitates pairing it with a highly contrasting foreground color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. For instance, using white text (#FFFFFF) on a #190116 background offers a contrast ratio that may or may not meet the minimum requirements, depending on the text size and font weight. It's crucial to test the contrast ratio using accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Moreover, avoid using #190116 for interactive elements or elements requiring user focus without a clear visual indicator, as its darkness can obscure these elements, leading to a poor user experience. Consider using lighter tints or shades of complementary colors to create accessible and visually pleasing interfaces.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #290325
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast for text and interactive elements.
- #333333
A muted gray tone provides a more neutral background, making foreground elements stand out more effectively.
- #301934
A deep purple hue that offers a similar richness while providing slightly better contrast ratios for accessibility.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #190116 can be used sparingly for header backgrounds or subtle design accents to create a sophisticated, dark aesthetic. However, always prioritize readability and accessibility by pairing it with high-contrast text and ensuring interactive elements are easily discernible. It is essential to consider user experience carefully when implementing such a dark color scheme to avoid creating a visually challenging interface.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #190116 could represent a deep, mysterious tone suitable for evening wear or elegant accessories. It provides a strong, grounding hue that complements brighter colors or serves as a dominant color in minimalist designs. Accessorizing with metallic elements like gold or silver can enhance its richness and sophistication.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #190116 can create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere when used for accent walls or furniture upholstery in dimly lit rooms. Pairing it with lighter colors and metallic accents can prevent the space from feeling too heavy or enclosed. It's well-suited for creating cozy and intimate spaces.