Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color code #010D97, known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It belongs to the family of blue colors and is characterized by its strong saturation and dark hue. In the RGB color model, #010D97 is composed of 0.4% red, 5.1% green, and 59.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 99% cyan, 89% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. Ultramarine is often associated with feelings of tranquility, depth, and sophistication. It is a versatile color that can be used in various design applications, from branding and web design to fashion and interior decor. Its intensity can evoke a sense of power and elegance, making it a popular choice for creating a bold and memorable impression. However, it must be used carefully because is very dark.
The color #010D97, also known as Ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its dark hue results in a very low contrast ratio when paired with similarly dark colors, making text or interactive elements nearly invisible to users. To ensure readability and usability, especially for users with visual impairments, it's crucial to use #010D97 with light backgrounds (white or light gray). According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. This color significantly fails to meet these recommendations when paired with dark colors. Developers should avoid using it for essential information without careful consideration of contrast. Using color contrast tools can help you select appropriate accompanying colors. Furthermore, providing alternative visual cues in addition to color (e.g., underlines, icons) can enhance accessibility for color-blind users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, enhancing readability and usability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that offers a safe and accessible choice for text and backgrounds, ensuring sufficient contrast for a wide range of users.
- #007bff
A vibrant shade of blue that is safe to use in most cases.
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine (#010D97) can serve as a striking accent color in website designs, particularly in headers or navigation bars. Its deep, rich tone can evoke a sense of sophistication and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites or portfolios aiming for a refined aesthetic. However, developers should use it judiciously, ensuring that it doesn't overwhelm the design or compromise readability. Complementing it with lighter shades or neutral tones can create a balanced and visually appealing interface. Avoid using it as the primary color for large blocks of text, as its darkness can strain the eyes and reduce comprehension.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine can be used for creating bold and elegant garments, especially for evening wear or statement pieces. Its deep blue hue can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to fabrics like velvet or silk. Designers can pair it with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its richness. It can also be used in accessories such as handbags or scarves to add a pop of color to an outfit. The color can be used as inspiration for an eye makeup collection. It must be used with lighter colors to avoid a dark aesthetic.
Interior Design
Ultramarine (#010D97) can bring a sense of depth and tranquility to interior spaces when used thoughtfully. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a focal point that draws the eye. It can also be used in smaller doses, such as in decorative pillows, artwork, or area rugs, to add a touch of sophistication to a room. When using Ultramarine in interior design, it's essential to balance it with lighter colors and natural materials to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Pair it with whites, creams, or light grays to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.