Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #011497, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. Ultramarine's name originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, imported from faraway lands. This color has historically been highly valued and used in art, particularly during the Renaissance, where it symbolized royalty and divinity due to its rarity and expense. Chemically synthesized ultramarine became available in the 19th century, making it more accessible for wider use. In modern applications, Ultramarine conveys a sense of stability, trust, and authority, often used in corporate branding and web design. Its rich hue can also be found in paints, inks, and dyes.
The color #011497, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Its low luminance value means it requires careful pairing with text and other visual elements to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #011497 as a background, ensure that any foreground text is light enough to meet these contrast requirements. White or very light shades of yellow or green could work well. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole means of conveying information, as users with color vision deficiencies may struggle to differentiate it from other dark colors. Always provide alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, to ensure inclusivity. Testing with accessibility tools is crucial to validate the contrast ratios and overall accessibility of your design when incorporating such a deep hue.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine (#011497) can be effectively used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It is well-suited for backgrounds in headers or footers, particularly for websites related to technology, finance, or education. The color evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it a good choice for branding elements. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter text and contrasting elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Furthermore, ultramarine can be strategically used in charts and graphs to highlight important data points, provided there is sufficient color contrast with other data series.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can serve as a striking accent color to bring sophistication and depth to a room. Consider using it on a feature wall to create a focal point, especially in living rooms or bedrooms. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to balance its intensity and prevent the space from feeling overwhelming. Ultramarine can also be incorporated through furniture, such as a velvet sofa or decorative pillows, to add a touch of luxury and elegance. Metallic accents, like gold or silver, can further enhance the richness of the color palette.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine can be used in evening wear to create a stunning and sophisticated look. A long ultramarine gown is both elegant and eye-catching. It can also be used as an accent color in casual wear, such as a blue scarf or a sweater, which can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. When combined with other jewel tones, such as emerald green or ruby red, it creates a rich and luxurious feel. For men, ultramarine can be used in ties or pocket squares to add a touch of personality to a suit.