Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #020D96, is a deep, saturated blue hue. It is named after the pigment derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli, which was historically highly valued and expensive. This color is associated with qualities such as depth, stability, trust, and sophistication. In color psychology, deep blues like Ultramarine often evoke feelings of calmness, peace, and authority. It is frequently used in branding and design to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism. The RGB values for Ultramarine are R:2, G:13, B:150, indicating a very low red and green component and a dominant blue component. Its CMYK values are C:99, M:91, Y:0, K:41. This dark shade requires careful consideration in design to ensure accessibility due to its low luminance.
The hex color #020D96, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very dark hue results in extremely low contrast against typical light backgrounds, such as white or light gray. This makes text and other elements using this color difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision, color blindness, or general readability issues. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use #020D96 with very light foreground colors that provide a contrast ratio meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, ideally a contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Alternatively, consider using it sparingly for decorative elements or backgrounds where readability is not critical, and always provide sufficient contrast for any interactive elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast and readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #191970
A deeper, more muted blue that can be used as a background color with lighter text for better accessibility.
- #2e29ad
A vibrant blue that provides a more accessible option with improved visibility for interactive components.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine (#020D96) can be utilized to create a luxurious and sophisticated aesthetic in website designs. Its depth and richness make it suitable for headers, footers, or as an accent color in logos. In UI design, use it sparingly for non-essential elements or backgrounds to maintain readability, complemented by high-contrast text and interactive components. For branding, Ultramarine can convey trustworthiness and stability, aligning well with financial or educational institutions. Ensure accessibility by pairing it with light yellows, oranges, or whites to create sufficient contrast, following WCAG guidelines to provide a positive user experience.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the realm of beauty and cosmetics, Ultramarine (#020D96) finds its niche in eyeshadows, eyeliners, and even hair dyes. This deep, intense blue can create striking and captivating looks, especially for evening or special occasions. It complements a wide range of skin tones, offering a bold and dramatic effect. When used in eyeshadows, it can add depth and dimension to the eyes, making them appear more vibrant and alluring. As an eyeliner, Ultramarine offers a unique alternative to traditional black, providing a pop of color while still maintaining a sense of sophistication.
Interior Design & Fashion
In the realm of interior design, Ultramarine (#020D96) makes a statement as an accent color. Use it for statement walls, cushions, or artwork against neutral backgrounds like greys or creams. The richness of Ultramarine creates a focal point, adding depth and elegance to living spaces. In fashion, Ultramarine can be applied to elegant evening wear or formal attire. Accessorize with neutral tones or metallic accents to keep the look sophisticated. This versatile hue can evoke feelings of sophistication and serenity, thus, in web design, integrate it for backgrounds or buttons paired with contrasting colors to improve readability and overall user experience.