Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #010297, is a deep, saturated blue hue. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from lapis lazuli, a rare and precious stone, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments used by Renaissance artists. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from stones imported into Europe from Asia. In modern color theory, #010297 falls into the blue color family, known for its associations with calmness, stability, and authority. This particular shade of ultramarine is especially potent and commands attention, often used to convey a sense of seriousness and sophistication, setting it apart from lighter and more pastel shades of blue.
The color #010297, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Due to its low lightness value, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against text or other foreground elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #010297 as a background, lighter colors like whites, yellows, or very light blues should be employed for text to meet these standards. Additionally, avoid using this color for crucial visual elements without providing alternative cues, as users with visual impairments may struggle to perceive them. Consider providing labels or icons alongside color-coded information to enhance accessibility for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies. Careful attention to color contrast and redundancy in visual cues are key to creating inclusive designs with this deep color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine (#010297) can be employed to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It is well-suited for backgrounds of headers or call-to-action buttons, especially in layouts targeting corporate or educational sectors. Complementary colors, such as light yellows or oranges, should be used for text to ensure readability. To ensure a modern and engaging interface, consider pairing this color with clean, minimalist typography and ample whitespace. Moreover, this shade can set a serious but inviting tone to the site, making sure that the users will feel welcome and well informed at the same time.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine evokes feelings of elegance and classic style. It is frequently observed in formal wear, evening gowns, and sophisticated accessories. This deep blue shade pairs effectively with metallics like silver and gold, as well as neutral tones such as beige and gray. For a bolder statement, ultramarine can be juxtaposed with contrasting colors like coral or fuchsia. Textile choices often include velvet, silk, and satin to enhance the color's richness and depth, thus creating elegant and timeless outfits.
Interior Design
In interior design, using ultramarine as an accent color can provide a touch of elegance and depth to the space. It works particularly well in living rooms and bedrooms, where it can be incorporated through decorative pillows, wall art, or small furniture pieces. Pairing ultramarine with lighter colors like white, cream, or light gray can create a balanced and harmonious environment. Metallic accents, such as gold or brass, can also enhance the luxurious feel of the color scheme, especially in rooms with ample natural light.