Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #010F9A, is a deep, saturated blue hue reminiscent of the precious pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Historically, Ultramarine was highly valued for its brilliance and permanence, making it a favorite among Renaissance painters. Today, synthetic versions of the pigment offer a more affordable alternative, but the name continues to evoke a sense of luxury and artistic tradition. In color theory, Ultramarine sits between blue and violet on the color wheel, possessing a calming yet powerful presence. Its deep tone can create a sense of depth, mystery, or sophistication in design applications.
The hex color #010F9A, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very dark hue results in low contrast when used as text against a white or light-colored background. This can make it difficult for users with low vision to read the text. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use this color sparingly, especially for essential text or interactive elements. Always pair it with a very light color for sufficient contrast, adhering to WCAG guidelines (minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Consider providing alternative color schemes that offer better contrast for users with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Avoid using this color alone to convey critical information; supplement it with clear labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A desaturated blue that offers a more muted and subtle appearance, reducing potential eye strain.
A vibrant color that offers a distinctive and modern look. It also provides a good level of contrast.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#010F9A) can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It's suitable for headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements. However, due to its low contrast, it should be used sparingly for text. Consider using it for backgrounds with white or very light text, or as a subtle overlay on images to create a unique visual effect. When using it for interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast on hover and focus states to maintain accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can bring a sense of tranquility and elegance to a space. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or libraries. It can be used as an accent wall color, or in furniture and accessories like cushions, rugs, or artwork. Balance the darkness of Ultramarine with lighter, warmer colors like cream, beige, or light gray to prevent the room from feeling too cold or oppressive. Metallic accents like gold or silver can also complement Ultramarine beautifully.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used in various ways. For evening wear, it can create an elegant and sophisticated look. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and jewelry. For casual wear, it can be used in smaller doses, such as in tops, pants, or shoes. Ultramarine pairs well with neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as brighter colors like yellow and orange. It can also be combined with other shades of blue and green for a monochromatic or analogous color scheme.