Black is more than a single color. It comes in many shades, each with its own style. Some look soft and quiet, while others feel strong or deep.
You’ll find cool blacks with hints of blue or green. Some are warmer, with brown or gray mixed in. These small changes can affect how a room feels and how clothes or designs stand out.
Knowing the difference helps you make better choices. You can pick a shade that fits your space or your personal style.
In this post, we’ll look at 30 shades of black. Each one brings something a little different to the table.
Top Shades of Black Color
Black is not just one flat color. It has many different shades, each with its own tone and use. Some feel cool, others warm, and some sit right in between.
1. Jet Black (#343434)
Jet black is the darkest shade of black. It has no gray, blue, or brown in it. The color feels bold, clear, and strong.
It stands out well in both bright and dim spaces. You can use it for walls, clothes, or tech items. It gives a very solid look with no extra detail.
People often choose jet black for formal wear. It also works well for sleek home items, making anything look sharp and finished.
2. Onyx (#353839)
Onyx is a deep black with hints of green or blue. It gets its name from the smooth, dark stone. The color feels rich and cool at the same time.
Onyx works well in rooms with soft or low light. It adds depth without being too heavy. You might see it used in tiles, jewelry, or walls.
This shade is good for both home and fashion. It shows a bit more life than jet black, and the small color shift makes it feel calm.
3. Charcoal (#36454F)
Charcoal is a soft black mixed with dark gray. It looks smoky and smooth. It feels less strong than jet black but still solid.
This shade works well in quiet spaces. Many people use it in bedrooms or offices. It adds shape without making things feel dark.
Charcoal pairs well with wood, metal, or soft colors. It also fits into many styles of home design. In clothes, it’s often used for coats or suits.
4. Ebony (#555D50)
Ebony is a black shade with a brown tint. It’s named after a dark wood used in furniture. The color feels deep and grounded.
It works well with warm tones and natural materials. Many people use it in floors, chairs, and trim. It helps a space feel stable and calm.
Ebony also appears in fashion. It’s used for shoes, belts, or jackets. The color adds depth without looking too hard.
5. Raven (#141414)
Raven is a shiny black with a soft blue glow. It’s based on the color of a raven’s feathers. This shade can shift slightly in the light.
You might see it in evening clothes or glossy paint. It’s a good pick for designs that need a little movement, and the light shine gives it a smooth look.
Raven works well in dark rooms or bold outfits. It gives more feeling than flat black. It’s deep, but not too plain.
6. Licorice (#1A1110)
The licorice is a soft black with a slightly warm tone. It’s named after the dark candy. The color feels smooth and calm.
This shade works well in smaller rooms or kitchens. It gives a dark look without feeling too heavy, and it pairs nicely with white, beige, or wood tones.
Licorice is also used in fashion and home accents. It fits well with casual or relaxed styles. The color adds depth while still feeling light.
7. Midnight (#2B1B17)
Midnight is a deep black that leans toward blue or brown. It brings to mind the color of the sky late at night. The tone is dark but gentle.
People like to use midnight in bedrooms or quiet spaces. It helps create a peaceful mood, and the slight color change gives it more life than flat black.
This shade looks great on walls, bedding, or furniture. It also works well in formal wear and mixes well with gray, navy, or deep brown.
8. Black Olive (#3B3C36)
Black olive is an earthy black with a green tint. It gets its name from the color of ripe olives. This shade feels grounded and natural.
It’s often used in rustic or nature-inspired spaces. It blends well with wood, stone, or cream, and the green tint keeps it from feeling too flat.
Black olive is also used in outerwear and accessories. It gives a dark look without being too bold, and the tone works well in fall or winter styles.
9. Davy’s Gray (#555555)
Davy’s Gray is a dusty gray-black shade named after an English painter, Henry Davy. It looks soft, faded, and quiet.
This shade works well in calm, neutral rooms. It can be used on walls, trim, or decor and gives a space a slightly aged feel.
Davy’s gray is also a good choice for art and clothing. It works nicely with whites, beiges, and soft blues. It’s a color that doesn’t try too hard.
10. Eerie Black (#1B1B1B)
Eerie black is a very dark shade with almost no undertones. The name gives it a quiet, strong feel. It’s close to true black but with a softer edge.
This shade is often used in bold or dramatic spaces. It adds mystery without being too harsh. It works well with moody lighting.
Eerie black also fits into modern and minimal designs. It can be used on walls, chairs, or lamps. It brings focus without loud detail.
11. Coal (#0C0908)
Coal is a rugged black with touches of gray. It looks like the surface of natural coal. The shade feels rough and solid.
This color works well in industrial or rustic rooms. It pairs nicely with brick, metal, and wood, and the gray tones keep it from feeling too deep.
Coal is also used in dark clothing and furniture. It gives a strong, steady look and holds depth without being too flat.
12. Ink Black (#212122)
Ink black is a deep, dense black with soft blue or purple hints. It looks like wet ink on paper, and the tone feels smooth and rich.
This shade is great for walls, writing tools, or glossy surfaces. It adds contrast and detail without looking too cold. The color changes slightly in a different light.
Ink black is also used in suits, bags, and printed fabric. It works well with deep blues or burgundy. It gives a serious but stylish look.
13. Graphite (#2F4F4F)
Graphite is black mixed with a soft metallic gray. It’s named after the material found in pencils. The shade feels sleek and cool.
Graphite works well in modern or tech-inspired spaces. It pairs easily with chrome, white, or light wood, and its shine gives it a clean look.
It’s also a popular color in fashion and cars. The gray tint softens the deep black, making it easy to match with other tones.
14. Outer Space (#414A4C)
Outer space is a dark gray-black shade with a soft, dusty feel. It gets its name from the color of space in art and science. The tone feels quiet and still.
This shade is often used in soft, moody rooms. It works well on walls, ceilings, or fabric. It gives a calm and steady feeling.
Outer space also appears in casual clothes and paint colors. It mixes nicely with gray, navy, or cream and gives depth without pulling focus.
15. Black Cat (#1A1110)
The black cat is soft black with a warm, fuzzy look. It’s based on the fur color of black cats. The shade feels cozy and friendly.
This color is good for family spaces or soft furniture. It brings in black without feeling sharp. It works well with other warm tones.
Black cats are also seen in winter clothes and plush materials. They add comfort while still looking neat, and their softness makes them easy to use in many ways.
16. Smoky Black (#100C08)
Smoky black is a faded, matte version of black. It resembles the color of ash or smoke, and the tone feels soft and muted.
This shade works well in modern, minimalistic rooms. It brings subtle depth without being too overpowering. It pairs nicely with grays, whites, or muted tones.
Smoky black also fits in fashion and accessories. It’s used in casual clothing or soft home textiles. The color is less bold than pure black but still adds shape.
17. Vampire Black (#080808)
Vampire black is a deep, dark black with hints of red or purple. It recalls the mystery of nighttime, and the slight tint adds depth and feeling.
This shade is often used in dramatic or Gothic spaces. It’s perfect for feature walls, art, or clothing. The red or purple tones bring a little bit of warmth.
Vampire black is also popular in makeup and fashion. It adds an edgy look to clothing and accessories. It’s a strong, dark shade without being cold.
18. Pitch Black (#000000)
Pitch black is the darkest black, with no visible undertones. It’s the color of complete darkness, where no light is reflected. The tone is strong and intense.
This shade can be used in rooms that need a dramatic feel. It’s perfect for creating bold contrasts. It gives a strong, solid look that feels firm.
Pitch black is also a favorite in clothing for its sharp look. It’s used in suits, dresses, and shoes. It provides the deepest color with no distraction.
19. Caviar (#3D0C02)
Caviar is a luxurious dark black with a deep brown undertone. It’s named after the rich black caviar delicacy. The tone feels rich and elegant.
This shade adds sophistication to both interiors and fashion. It pairs well with gold, silver, or wood tones. The brown depth makes it feel grounded and warm.
Caviar is a popular choice for clothing, furniture, and accessories in formal settings. It adds depth without feeling too dark.
20. Ash Black (#666362)
Ash black is a soft, smoky black with gray tones. It resembles the color of burnt wood or ashes. The shade feels subtle and calming.
Ash black is a great choice for rooms that need a touch of black but not too much intensity. It works well with natural materials like stone, wood, or metal. Ash black adds depth without overpowering the space.
Ash black also works well in clothing and accessories. It’s often used in outerwear or casual wear. The gray undertones give it a softer, more wearable feel.
21. Ironside (#2C3539)
Ironside is a strong iron-gray black with a cool, metal-like feel. It combines the darkness of black with a touch of steel, feeling solid and grounded.
This shade works well in industrial-style rooms or modern designs. It pairs nicely with metallic elements like chrome or brushed steel. It brings a hard, strong edge to any space.
Ironside also appears in fashion, often used for outerwear or accessories. It’s sleek and clean, with a slight coolness. It’s a perfect color for adding sophistication without too much shine.
22. Steel Black (#2F4F4F)
Steel black is a cool-toned black with a metallic edge. It’s reminiscent of dark steel or iron and feels industrial and sleek.
Steel black is often used in modern spaces, like kitchens or offices. It adds a touch of strength and practicality to a room and pairs well with other cool tones, like silver or gray.
In fashion, steel black is often seen in sleek jackets or accessories. Its futuristic, minimal look and cool tone make it a versatile choice for design and clothing.
23. Sable (#060606)
Sable is a dark black with a plush, fur-like feel. It’s inspired by the rich fur of the sable animal. Despite being dark, the color has warmth and softness.
This shade is often used in luxury home decor, like velvet cushions or throws. It brings a touch of comfort and richness, and the warmth in the color makes it feel inviting.
Sable also works well in fashion, especially in coats and shawls. It gives a soft and cozy vibe. The color pairs well with neutral tones or metallics for a balanced look.
24. Oil Black (#3B3131)
Oil black is a deep, dark black with a smooth, reflective finish. It resembles the look of oil on water, catching the light. The color feels sleek and rich.
This shade is often used for modern designs, like furniture or decor. It creates a clean, striking look while still maintaining its depth. The reflective quality adds interest without being too overpowering.
Oil black is also common in accessories like shoes and belts. Its polished, clean look and finish make it stand out while still being dark.
25. Black Bean (#3D0C02)
Black bean is a deep, dark black with a brown tint. It resembles the color of black beans and has an earthy feel. The shade is rich and soft.
This shade works well in natural or rustic-themed spaces. It pairs nicely with wood, leather, and natural textiles. The brown undertone adds warmth to the dark color.
Black bean is also used in clothing and furniture. Its deep brown tint gives it a grounded, earthy look without making it seem too stark.
26. Phantom Black (#1F1F1F)
Phantom black is a sleek, smooth, deep black with a clean, solid appearance without any extra tones.
This shade works well in modern and minimalistic spaces. It adds depth without taking away from other design elements.
Phantom black is also common in tech products like phones and laptops. It gives a polished, refined look while remaining simple.
27. Obsidian (#020403)
Obsidian is a black volcanic glass inspired by a smooth, reflective finish. Its deep, rich color seems to glow in the right light.
This shade is great for dark, dramatic spaces. It creates a strong focal point without being too intense.
Obsidian is also used in jewelry and home decor. It’s sleek and shiny, catching the eye while maintaining a deep, striking look.
28. Tarmac (#0C0404)
Tarmac is a gritty, asphalt-like black with a rough texture. It feels earthy and grounded, much like the road it’s named after.
This color works well in industrial or rustic spaces. It brings a rugged, solid feel without being too harsh.
Tarmac is also seen in outdoor furniture and accents. It’s perfect for adding a little edge to urban designs.
29. Basalt (#676767)
Basalt is a grayish black inspired by the natural stone. It has soft gray undertones that make it feel less harsh than pure black.
This shade is perfect for natural or earthy-themed rooms. It pairs well with wood, stone, or natural fabrics.
Basalt is also used in flooring, countertops, or accents. The subtle gray gives it a muted, natural look that still feels dark.
30. Shadow Black (#1C1C1E)
Shadow Black is a soft, muted black with cool undertones. It feels quiet and subtle, making it perfect for spaces that need depth without a strong contrast.
This shade works well in bedrooms, offices, or any place where you want a calm atmosphere. It’s not too intense but still offers that deep black look.
Shadow black also pairs nicely with lighter shades, like whites or creams. It creates a balanced, gentle contrast in any room.
Applications in Design and Fashion
1. Interior Design
In interior design, black shades are used to create different moods. Charcoal adds a soft, warm touch, making spaces feel cozy. Onyx, with its deep hue, brings drama to modern rooms, while smoky black gives the room more depth.
These colors can transform a room without using bright colors. Charcoal is often used in bedrooms, on walls or furniture, for a calm feel. Onyx is a popular choice for accent walls and large furniture pieces.
Smoky black works well in living rooms and hallways. It brings a quiet richness to the space, perfect for neutral designs. The darker tones of black provide a strong base that can complement other colors.
2. Fashion
Black is always in fashion. Ebony and ink black are common in formal wear, offering a classic and sharp look. Both shades create a timeless, polished appearance for suits, dresses, and accessories.
Graphite and raven, with their soft tones, are often used for sleek, modern looks. These shades work well for evening wear or everyday outfits that need a refined finish. The subtle sheen in the raven adds an edge to clothing.
For more casual fashion, charcoal and smoky black provide a relaxed yet stylish appearance. These blacks pair well with other colors, giving room for creativity. They are often used in sweaters, coats, and accessories.
Cultural Significance
1. Symbolism
In many cultures, black holds powerful meanings. It represents strength, mystery, or power. In some traditions, it also symbolizes sadness or mourning.
Black can signify authority and elegance, making it a popular choice in clothing for formal events. It can also suggest seriousness or solemnity in other areas. Each culture views black through its own lens.
In design, black is seen as a color of luxury. It’s often used in high-end brands and expensive decor. The meaning of black can change depending on its context and use.
2. Mood and Meaning
Shades of black can change the mood of a space. Some, like graphite, feel colder and more industrial. They’re often used in minimalistic designs for a modern touch.
Other shades, such as sable and ebony, feel grounded and warm. These blacks can create a welcoming atmosphere in both homes and fashion. They add depth without making a room feel too dark.
The mood of a space or outfit can shift depending on the shade of black used. Cool blacks work in sleek, professional settings, while warmer blacks add comfort and richness. Understanding the moods of different blacks helps in making design choices.
Conclusion
Knowing the different shades of black can help you make smarter choices in design, fashion, and mood. Each shade brings its own unique feeling and texture.
For example, jet black is bold and strong, while charcoal is soft and calming. Onyx brings drama, and the raven adds a hint of blue shine.
Choosing the right black shade can change how a room feels or how clothes look. Darker shades can add depth, while lighter blacks give a subtle touch.
By understanding the differences, you can match the shade to the vibe you want to create. Each black has its place in design and style, offering something different to every space or outfit.