Psychology
Black is decisive — there's no other color where small shifts in saturation feel as loaded. It carries weight, formality, and a hint of mystery.
Meaning
Power, elegance, rebellion, and mourning — sometimes all at once. In fashion it signals confidence; in branding it telegraphs luxury or counter-culture.
Applications
Premium brands, editorial design, and high-contrast UI dark modes. Pair with white for timeless minimalism or with warm metallics for luxury.
Conversion
HEX
121615
RGB
18, 22, 21
HSL
165, 10%, 8%
HSB
165, 18%, 9%
CMYK
18, 0, 5, 91
LAB
7, -2, 0
LCH
7, 2, 179
OKLCH
0.20, 0.01, 179
XYZ
1, 1, 1
LUV
7, -1, 0
HWB
165, 7%, 91%
Pantone
Black C
Harmonies
Shades & tints
Similar named colors
Browse every named black on shades of black, or all families on colors.