Ultramarine
General Information about #031498
The hex color code #031498 represents a deep shade of blue, often referred to as ultramarine. It is composed of 1.18% red, 7.84% green, and 59.61% blue. This color is located in the blue-violet part of the color spectrum and is characterized by its high blue content. In the RGB color model, #031498 is created by mixing very little red and green with a substantial amount of blue. The CMYK representation of #031498 is approximately 98% cyan, 87% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. The low levels of yellow contribute to the blueness of this shade. Ultramarine, in general, evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. It is often associated with trust, intelligence, and authority. Due to its dark nature, it can also convey a sense of depth and mystery. This color is frequently used in corporate branding, academic settings, and artistic projects where a serious and reliable image is desired.
The hex color #031498, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text and user interface design. Its low luminance value results in very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds, failing WCAG standards for readability. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair this color with significantly lighter shades, such as whites, creams, or very pale yellows, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using color contrast analysis tools is highly recommended to verify compliance. Avoid using #031498 for essential visual elements like links, buttons, or form fields without proper contrast. Furthermore, consider providing alternative visual cues, like underlines or icons, to convey information to users who may have color vision deficiencies. When implementing this color, thorough testing with diverse users is essential to validate its usability and ensure an inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but provides better contrast against white backgrounds.
A vibrant, accessible blue that is commonly used for interactive elements and calls to action.
A dark teal that can be used in place of ultramarine as a more accessible color for text and backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #031498 can be utilized as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements, or in a website's header and footer to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, it should not be used for large blocks of text or important interactive elements due to accessibility concerns. Consider using it sparingly for graphical elements or as a background for images, ensuring sufficient contrast with overlying text or controls. Using this color with gradients can also make it appear less harsh and enhance visual interest. This color will create a very cool, intellectual and trustworthy appeal.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #031498 can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire to create a sophisticated and elegant look. It can be used as the primary color for a dress or suit, or as an accent color in accessories such as scarves or jewelry. This color can also be used in casual wear, but it is important to balance it with lighter colors to avoid a somber or overwhelming appearance. Try mixing this color with denim, white, or even pastel colors to make this color more appropriate for daytime wear.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #031498 can be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere. It can be applied as an accent wall color in bedrooms or living rooms, or as a primary color in decorative elements such as pillows, curtains, or rugs. This color pairs well with neutral colors such as white, gray, and beige, creating a balanced and harmonious space. However, it is important to avoid overusing #031498 in small or poorly lit spaces, as it can make them feel dark and cramped. In an office setting, this dark color is appropriate for creating an intellectual environment. In a bedroom, it is appropriate for a calm and soothing environment.