Black Russian
General Information about #1B0017
#1B0017, also known as Black Russian, is a very dark, muted shade of purple, almost black. It belongs to the family of purples and falls within the hexadecimal color system. The color is composed of 10.6% red, 0% green, and 9% blue. In the RGB color space, it translates to R:27, G:0, B:23. Its CMYK values are C:0, M:1, Y:0.15, K:0.89. This color evokes feelings of sophistication, mystery, and elegance. It is often used in designs where a dark, rich hue is needed without being as stark as pure black. The name 'Black Russian' suggests a connection to luxury and intrigue. In web design, it's crucial to consider its accessibility due to its low luminance.
The hex color #1B0017, a very dark shade of purple, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios. When used as a background color, it demands very light text to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet WCAG AA standards. For AAA compliance, even higher contrast ratios are needed (7:1 for normal text, 4.5:1 for large text). Insufficient contrast can render text illegible, excluding users with low vision or color blindness. When employing #1B0017, thorough contrast checks using online tools are crucial, and alternatives with greater luminance should be considered to improve overall accessibility and inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1B0017 can be used to create a sophisticated and mysterious atmosphere. It is suitable for backgrounds, headers, or accents in websites related to luxury brands, night clubs, or gothic themes. However, due to its dark nature, it is crucial to pair it with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it sparingly, perhaps in combination with shades of gold or silver, to create a visually appealing and balanced design. Also, test color combinations in different lighting conditions to ensure the design is still effective.
Interior Design
#1B0017 can be used to add depth and drama. Consider it as an accent wall color in a modern living room or as the primary color in a home theater to create a cozy and immersive experience. The color needs to be balanced with lighter elements, such as light-colored furniture or strategic lighting, to prevent the space from feeling too dark and small. Use fabrics with textures and metallic accents to enhance the color and add visual interest.
Fashion
In fashion, #1B0017 exudes elegance and mystery, making it suitable for evening wear or statement pieces. It can be used in velvet dresses, silk scarves, or leather accessories. This dark shade pairs well with metallics like silver or gold to create a striking contrast. For a more understated look, combine it with lighter neutrals like beige or gray. Be mindful of the fabric choice, as the color will appear differently on various materials.