Black: 17 shades, names and colour codes

On screen, sRGB black has three zero channels. In print or paint, its appearance depends on the surface and material. Its meaning can range from elegance to mourning, depending on context.

Black pairs with many colours, but its quantity changes the result dramatically. A black line can simply organise a composition; a large black background becomes a major element itself. Decide between outline, surface and accent before choosing a companion colour.

Black and white: organise the main areas

Think of the pairing in terms of areas rather than scattered details. In a room, a light background with a few black volumes creates a different hierarchy from a mainly black space. For a layout, place headings, images and empty areas first. Closely spaced black-and-white patterns need testing at their actual size.

Black and brown: let texture contribute

Matt black can accompany walnut, cognac leather or chocolate brown. If both colours are dark, introduce a lighter area to separate silhouettes. In clothing, differences in material can be more interesting than additional accessories. In product photography, make sure a brown object does not disappear into the black background.

Black and ochre: choose the focal point

A few ochre accents can punctuate a black-and-ecru base. Start with one location: a seat, graphic shape or important number. Very bright yellow makes the visual contrast more insistent; reduce its area if you want a quieter presence. Yellow does not need to appear everywhere to register.

On screen, #000000 describes a specific sRGB black. Black fabric, satin paint and black metal do not therefore have identical appearances. Compare finish as well as hue. For an interface, also try charcoal if pure black feels too abrupt, then measure text contrast against the actual value you select.

For an initial light composition, try 70% ecru, 20% charcoal and 10% cognac. A dark version can reverse the first two proportions, but boundaries, images and text areas then need reassessing.

On black, a dark-grey border, navy logo or dim photograph can become difficult to distinguish. Test the composition on several screens and in its intended setting. Separate elements by adjusting lightness, spacing or outlines rather than automatically introducing a bright colour.