Ultramarine
General Information about #040296
The hexadecimal color #040296, also known as Ultramarine, is a very dark shade of blue. It resides in the blue color space, characterized by a strong presence of blue pigment and minimal red or green. This color is often associated with depth, sophistication, and stability. Ultramarine has historical significance, originally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. Due to its rarity and expense, it was highly valued by artists and used in important works of art. Today, synthetic ultramarine pigments are readily available, making the color more accessible. In color theory, #040296 is considered a cool color, often evoking feelings of calmness and serenity. It can be used to create a sense of formality or importance.
The color #040296, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance (very dark) results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text or discern important UI elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. A large text requires a contrast ratio of at least 3:1, while normal text requires at least 4.5:1. This color is unlikely to meet these standards against common background colors like white or light gray. Web developers should avoid using #040296 for text or interactive elements unless paired with a very light color that provides adequate contrast. Consider using a color contrast checker to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Also, provide alternative styling options to ensure users can override the default color scheme to meet their needs. Proper use of ARIA attributes can further enhance accessibility when dealing with complex interfaces.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #040296 can be used sparingly for background accents or decorative elements where high contrast is not essential. For instance, it could serve as a subtle overlay on images or as a border color. However, avoid using it for text, buttons, or important interactive elements due to its poor readability. If using it for graphical elements, ensure that sufficient alternative information is provided via tooltips or ARIA attributes. Consider using it for branding where the brand identity heavily relies on darker colors. In these cases, ensure accessibility is prioritized.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #040296 represents a deep, sophisticated aesthetic often associated with evening wear or formal attire. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and ties. The color conveys elegance and can be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its visual appeal. However, due to its darkness, it is often best used on individuals with lighter complexions to prevent it from appearing too overpowering. The color is often used in garments for special occasions or in high fashion.
Interior Design
In interior design, #040296 could act as a dramatic accent color in rooms with ample natural light. Consider using it for a feature wall or a statement piece of furniture. The color works well in spaces designed for relaxation, such as home libraries or bedrooms. When using #040296, balance it with lighter shades to prevent the room from feeling too dark or oppressive. Use it to add depth to a space by pairing it with neutral tones to create a balanced and harmonious living space.