Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #020299, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It falls under the blue color family and is known for its strong presence and association with qualities like depth, trust, and stability. In the RGB color model, #020299 is composed of 0.8% red, 0.8% green, and 60% blue. It is a dark color with low saturation, making it suitable for use as an accent color or in designs where a sense of seriousness or sophistication is desired. Its CMYK values are 99% cyan, 99% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. Ultramarine's historical significance stems from the pigment derived from lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized color in art.
The color #020299, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance makes it difficult to perceive for individuals with low vision or color blindness. When used as text, a very high contrast ratio is essential against a light background to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 7:1 is recommended for WCAG AAA compliance, while a minimum of 4.5:1 is necessary for WCAG AA compliance. Avoid using this color for essential information or interactive elements if a sufficient contrast ratio cannot be achieved. In user interface design, consider alternative, lighter shades of blue or other colors with higher luminance for better accessibility. Providing alternative text or visual cues can also improve accessibility for users who may have difficulty distinguishing this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast and visibility, especially against white backgrounds.
A more saturated blue that stands out more prominently, offering improved visual clarity.
A compromise between the original color and pure black, offering a slightly lighter shade while retaining depth and richness.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, with its connotations of depth and sophistication, can be powerfully employed in website design to establish a mood of trust and stability. Consider its use in header backgrounds or within graphical elements intended to convey authority and reliability. Because of its dark nature, using it sparingly as an accent color will emphasize key information without overwhelming the user. It pairs well with neutral colors, like white and gray, and can also be used in gradients to create depth and visual interest. Ensure text contrast remains exceptionally high for accessibility.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine adds a touch of elegance and mystique. It can be effectively used in evening wear, formal attire, or as an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags. As a solid color, it exudes confidence and composure. The color is suitable for knitwear, giving it a touch of class and sophistication. Mixing ultramarine with lighter hues creates interesting gradients that highlight detail without sacrificing visual appeal. It will also bring out the luster in silk or satin.
Interior Design
Ultramarine evokes a sense of calm and tranquility, making it suitable for bedrooms or study areas. However, due to its dark nature, it's best used as an accent color or in rooms with plenty of natural light. Consider incorporating it in throw pillows, artwork, or as a feature wall. Its depth complements metallic accents like gold or silver. The colour can also be used to create a sense of focus in a home office or library. It is best to pair it with lighter colors like white or beige to balance the room and avoid a dark atmosphere.