Black Russian
About Black Russian (#1A0121)
The hex color code #1A0121, also known as 'Black Russian', is a very dark and desaturated shade of purple. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 10.2% red, 0.39% green, and 12.94% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 21% cyan, 97% magenta, 0% yellow, and 87% black. This color is often associated with sophistication, mystery, and luxury due to its deep, rich tone. The name 'Black Russian' evokes a sense of intrigue and refinement, possibly inspired by the similarly named cocktail. Its close proximity to black makes it suitable for applications where subtlety and depth are desired, but it requires careful consideration of contrast to ensure legibility and accessibility.
The color #1A0121, a very dark and desaturated purple, poses significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its extremely low luminance (very close to black) means that it requires very light text (almost white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. Using this color as a background for large blocks of text is strongly discouraged due to potential eye strain. When used as a foreground color, it is vital to pair it with a very light background, and even then, careful consideration should be given to the font size and weight to maximize legibility. In interactive elements like buttons, ensure a clear visual distinction through changes in color, size, or shape upon hover or focus, and provide sufficient color contrast ratios in order to comply with WCAG guidelines. It is crucial to test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web and UI Design
In web design, Black Russian can be used sparingly as a background color for specific sections or elements to create a sense of luxury or mystery. It is crucial to use it with high-contrast text and interactive elements to ensure accessibility. For example, it could be used as a background for a call-to-action button with bright, contrasting text, or as an accent color in a website's header or footer. In user interface design, the color may be appropriate for dark mode interfaces to create a calming and sophisticated aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Russian can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or accessories to add depth and sophistication to a space. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver and other complementary colors such as light grays or creams. Use it sparingly for wall paint, especially in rooms that lack natural light. The color could be suitable for a small reading nook, paired with warm lighting and comfortable textiles, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Fashion
In fashion, Black Russian can be used as a base color for garments to create a sleek and sophisticated look. It works well with various fabrics such as velvet, silk, and leather, and can be accessorized with metallic jewelry or bold, contrasting colors. It is also suitable for evening wear or formal attire. A dress or suit in this shade can convey elegance and a sense of timeless style. It may be suitable in combination with lighter colors or textures to create interesting visual effects.