Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #00009C, is a deep, vivid blue that evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and tranquility. Historically, the pigment for ultramarine paint was derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized and expensive color, often reserved for the most important figures in paintings, such as the Virgin Mary. In modern color theory, ultramarine is valued for its ability to create strong visual impact and convey a sense of authority. It is commonly used in branding and graphic design to represent trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence. Its rich hue makes it stand out, drawing the eye and creating a lasting impression.

The color #00009C, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text (AA) and large text (AA), and even fails for AAA standards. This means users with visual impairments may struggle to read content using this color. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with very light colors, such as whites (#FFFFFF) or light yellows (#FFFFE0) for text. If #00009C is used as a background color, ensure that the text on top has sufficient contrast, employing tools like contrast checkers to verify compliance with accessibility guidelines. Larger font sizes or bolder fonts can sometimes marginally improve contrast, but thorough testing is still crucial to ensure usability for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Accent

  Ultramarine (#00009C) can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. In web design, it can serve as an accent color for buttons, headers, or navigation bars, providing a contrast against lighter backgrounds. Given its intensity, it's best used sparingly to highlight key elements and guide user attention. Moreover, in data visualization, it can be applied to represent specific categories or emphasize important data points, enhancing clarity and visual appeal. In branding, especially for companies seeking to convey reliability and innovation, ultramarine offers a memorable and professional touch.

• Beauty and Cosmetics

  Ultramarine, with its rich and profound hue, finds a prominent place in the beauty industry, particularly in eye makeup. Eyeshadows and eyeliners in this shade create a bold and captivating look, enhancing eye color and adding a touch of mystery. Furthermore, nail polishes in ultramarine offer a sophisticated and statement-making alternative to more common colors. In hair coloring, subtle ultramarine highlights can add depth and dimension to darker hair tones. When formulating beauty products with this color, it is crucial to use safe and non-toxic pigments that are suitable for cosmetic applications.

• Fashion Design

  In fashion, ultramarine can be used to design stunning evening wear and formal attire. The color exudes sophistication and elegance, making it suitable for dresses, suits, and accessories. Consider using it as an accent color in a more neutral outfit or in combination with complementary colors such as gold or silver. From casual wear to high fashion, Ultramarine offers versatility and a timeless appeal, allowing designers to create unique and memorable looks. The deep blue hue works particularly well with luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and satin, enhancing the overall visual impact and adding a touch of glamour.

Complementary color

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