Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #010599, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and rich shade of blue. It belongs to the family of blue colors and is characterized by its strong and intense hue. Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. In color psychology, blue is known to have a calming and soothing effect on the mind, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Ultramarine, in particular, can evoke feelings of serenity, stability, and security. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art and decoration. Today, it is widely used in various fields, including web design, graphic design, fashion, and interior design.
The hex color #010599, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark hue. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires a very light background color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using this color on a dark background will make the text illegible for many users, especially those with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, consider pairing #010599 with colors like #FFFFFF (white) or very light shades of gray or yellow. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards and help with finding appropriate background colors that provides enough contrast. This is important to avoid excluding users and provide a positive user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine (#010599) can be used sparingly as an accent color for headings, borders, or interactive elements to draw attention without overwhelming the user interface. It works well in combination with neutral colors such as white, light gray, or beige to create a balanced and professional look. Due to its darkness, it is not recommended to use this color for large blocks of text or backgrounds, as it can cause eye strain and reduce readability. When using this color, make sure that a sufficient contrast is provided.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be applied as a wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to induce relaxation and a sense of depth. This color can also be used in textiles, such as curtains, rugs, or cushions, to add a pop of color and interest to the space. When using Ultramarine in interior design, it is important to balance it with lighter colors and natural materials to prevent the space from feeling too dark or cold.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used as a bold and eye-catching color for statement pieces such as dresses, coats, or accessories. It pairs well with other colors such as gold, silver, or black to create a luxurious and elegant look. This color can also be used in smaller doses as a subtle accent in patterns or embellishments. When using Ultramarine in fashion, it is important to consider the overall color palette and ensure that the outfit is well-balanced and harmonious.