Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #000099, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its rich and intense hue. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the rare and expensive mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment in art. Today, synthetic ultramarine is readily available, offering a more affordable alternative. In color theory, ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and trust. Its visual characteristics make it a cool color, often associated with calmness and reliability. It can be used to convey formality and is often found in corporate settings to represent trust.
The hex color #000099, also known as Ultramarine, presents specific accessibility challenges, especially in text-based contexts. Due to its dark shade, it demands careful consideration of color contrast to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. When using #000099 as a background color, it is crucial to pair it with light-colored text, such as white or a very pale yellow, to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. Similarly, if #000099 is used for text, a significantly lighter background is essential. Insufficient contrast can render content illegible for individuals with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, designers and developers should diligently assess the color pairings and utilize accessibility tools to verify compliance with established guidelines, ensuring an inclusive and user-friendly experience for all users, regardless of their visual abilities. This color should not be used for important information if contrast is insufficient.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, enhancing readability.
A more vibrant blue that can draw attention and is suitable for interactive elements like buttons and links.
A softer blue that evokes a sense of calm and trust, making it a good choice for backgrounds or accents.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#000099) can be employed strategically to evoke a sense of authority and trust, making it suitable for financial institutions or government websites. It can serve as a primary color for headings, navigation bars, or accent elements to create a professional and reliable impression. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter shades for optimal readability and accessibility. Consider using it sparingly to highlight key information or call-to-action buttons, ensuring sufficient contrast against the background. The color should be used together with other UI/UX aspects.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine (#000099) can be used to add depth and sophistication to a space. It works well as an accent color in rooms with neutral palettes, such as living rooms or bedrooms. Consider using it for statement walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories like cushions and artwork. However, due to its intensity, it's best to use it in moderation to avoid overwhelming the space. Complement it with lighter blues, grays, or whites to create a balanced and harmonious atmosphere. Proper lighting is crucial to enhance the color's richness and prevent it from appearing too dark or gloomy.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine (#000099) can be a striking choice for evening wear or formal attire, conveying a sense of elegance and confidence. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and handbags. When incorporating it into an outfit, consider pairing it with complementary colors like gold, silver, or white to create a visually appealing contrast. The color can also be used as an accent in streetwear and can be combined with bright yellow and green.