Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #020D99, is a deep, intense blue color often associated with depth, mystery, and sophistication. Historically, the term "ultramarine" referred to a pigment derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. This historical significance contributes to its aura of luxury and exclusivity. In the RGB color model, #020D99 is composed of 0.8% red, 5.1% green, and 60% blue. Its CMYK values are 99% cyan, 91% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. This color evokes feelings of tranquility and trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for branding in fields such as finance, technology, and healthcare. Its usage can convey a sense of stability and reliability, essential for building customer confidence.
The color #020D99, also known as Ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations, especially in web design. Due to its deep, saturated hue, it has limited contrast with other dark colors, which can pose readability issues if used for text or crucial interface elements. When using this color for text, ensure a very light background color is chosen to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Furthermore, avoid using #020D99 as the sole indicator for interactive elements or important information, as users with color vision deficiencies may struggle to distinguish it. Providing additional cues, such as labels, icons, or changes in shape or size, can significantly improve accessibility for all users. This color is better suited for decorative elements or as an accent color, where legibility and clarity are less critical.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter blue that offers better contrast on white backgrounds, enhancing readability while maintaining a sense of depth.
A more muted blue that provides a softer visual impact, suitable for backgrounds without overwhelming other elements.
Provides a bright, energetic alternative while ensuring good readability and visibility.
Applications
Cosmetic Packaging
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep hue, can be used to create a sense of sophistication and luxury in cosmetic packaging. Its association with depth and mystery makes it ideal for highlighting special ingredients or the transformative effects of a product. When designing packaging, the color can be effectively combined with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its premium appeal, attracting consumers looking for high-end beauty solutions. In marketing materials, Ultramarine can evoke feelings of trust and authority, which is beneficial for brands aiming to establish credibility and reliability in the competitive beauty market.
User Interface Design
In user interface (UI) design, #020D99 can be employed as a primary color for elements that require emphasis, such as call-to-action buttons or navigational menus. However, given its dark nature, it’s crucial to pair it with very light text and background colors to ensure legibility and accessibility. It can also be used for creating a sense of depth in layered designs, adding a modern and sophisticated touch to web applications. This color works well with minimalist layouts, where its boldness can serve as a focal point without overwhelming the overall design. Additionally, it's effective for data visualization, distinguishing key data points in charts and graphs due to its high contrast against lighter backgrounds.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine (#020D99) can be used as a bold statement color, particularly in evening wear or accessories. Imagine a flowing gown in this deep hue, exuding elegance and sophistication. It can also be used in smaller doses, such as in scarves, handbags, or jewelry, to add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. This color pairs well with metallics like gold or silver for a glamorous look, or with neutral tones like gray or black for a more understated style. In menswear, Ultramarine could be used in ties, pocket squares, or even in the lining of a suit jacket to add a touch of personality without being too overt.