Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #020B99, is a deep blue hue historically derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. This color is renowned for its rich, intense shade that has been prized since ancient times, particularly in art and decoration. In the RGB color model, Ultramarine consists of 0.8% red, 4.3% green, and 60% blue, highlighting its strong blue dominance. Its CMYK values are 99% cyan, 95% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. Ultramarine's depth and purity have made it a favorite among artists and designers seeking to evoke feelings of serenity, depth, and sophistication. Its use extends beyond art into various fields, including fashion, interior design, and web development.
The hex color #020B99, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using white (#FFFFFF) text on an Ultramarine background achieves a high contrast ratio, which is essential for users with visual impairments. However, other colors might fail to meet accessibility standards. When using this color, web developers must rigorously test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Consideration should be given to users with color blindness, who may struggle to differentiate between shades on a dark background. Proper use of ARIA attributes and semantic HTML can further enhance accessibility when using Ultramarine.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the depth of Ultramarine while offering improved contrast with darker text.
A more vibrant blue that provides a better visual balance and is easier to perceive on screens.
This color provides better readability, but it is still in the family of blue shades.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep tone, is frequently employed in website headers and navigation bars to convey a sense of sophistication and authority. Its dark nature allows for effective highlighting of lighter-colored text and interactive elements, enhancing user experience. The color can be incorporated into button designs to draw attention and encourage user engagement, especially when paired with contrasting accent colors. Furthermore, Ultramarine is often used to create visually appealing data visualizations and charts, providing a professional aesthetic that is suitable for corporate websites and informative platforms. The selection of this color can significantly elevate the visual appeal and usability of a website.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine offers a luxurious and classic appeal. It's frequently seen in evening wear, formal attire, and statement pieces that aim to capture attention with a bold yet refined aesthetic. This color works exceptionally well in fabrics like velvet, silk, and satin, where its depth is enhanced by the material's texture and sheen. As an accent color, Ultramarine can be incorporated into accessories such as scarves, handbags, and jewelry to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. It is a versatile color that complements both warm and cool skin tones, making it a popular choice among designers.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can be applied as an accent color in interior design, especially in rooms that benefit from a calming yet sophisticated touch. It's often used on walls, either as a complete coating or as an accent wall, to create a focal point and a sense of depth. Ultramarine pairs well with neutral tones such as white, gray, and beige, allowing the blue to stand out without overwhelming the space. This color also works beautifully in upholstery for sofas, chairs, and cushions, adding a pop of color and luxury. Moreover, decorative items like vases, artwork, and lamps in Ultramarine can enhance the overall aesthetic of a room, creating a balanced and harmonious atmosphere. The intensity of the color makes it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces seeking a touch of elegance.