Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #00079B, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' it historically referred to the pigment made from ground lapis lazuli imported from Afghanistan. This pigment was highly valued and often reserved for important works of art, particularly those depicting religious figures. In modern color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with feelings of calmness, trust, and authority. Its RGB values are R:0, G:7, B:155, indicating a negligible amount of red and green, with a significant presence of blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of approximately 100% cyan, 95% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39% black. This composition contributes to its deep and saturated appearance. Ultramarine is widely used in various applications, from web design and graphic arts to fashion and interior decor, often employed to convey a sense of sophistication and stability.
The color #00079B, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value (very dark) results in poor contrast against white or light backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine falls far short of these recommendations when paired with many common background colors. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to use Ultramarine with very light foreground colors that provide sufficient contrast. Consider increasing the size of text rendered in Ultramarine to enhance readability. Providing alternative color schemes or allowing users to customize the color display can further improve the user experience for individuals with diverse visual needs. Careful consideration of color pairings and adherence to accessibility guidelines are essential when incorporating Ultramarine into designs to ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
Ultramarine, with its deep and captivating hue, can serve as a striking accent color in web design. It's particularly effective for highlighting call-to-action buttons or key navigational elements, drawing the user's eye and encouraging interaction. When used sparingly against a lighter background, such as white or light gray, it creates a visually appealing contrast that enhances the overall user experience. Ultramarine's association with trust and reliability also makes it suitable for websites in the finance or technology sectors. However, due to its dark nature, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain accessibility and readability for all users.
Interior Design Accent
In the realm of interior design, Ultramarine can be employed to create a sense of depth and tranquility. A single accent wall painted in this rich blue can transform a room, adding a touch of sophistication and drama. It pairs beautifully with neutral colors like cream, beige, and gray, allowing the blue to take center stage without overwhelming the space. Ultramarine can also be incorporated through accessories such as throw pillows, rugs, or artwork to introduce pops of color and visual interest. Its association with the ocean and sky evokes feelings of calm and serenity, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms or living areas where relaxation is desired. Complementary colors like gold or warm yellows can further enhance its impact.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine's boldness makes it ideal for beauty products. Eyeshadows in this color can create striking looks, while eyeliners draw attention to the eyes. In fashion, the color can be used in garments to evoke a sense of sophistication and elegance. A dress or suit in Ultramarine can be an outstanding statement piece. It is suitable for evening events and occasions where a strong visual impact is desired. However, care must be taken to pair it with complementary colors and accessories to avoid overwhelming the overall look. Accessories in gold or silver tones can complement the blue, while neutral shoes and bags can complete the outfit.