Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #040497, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, intense shade of blue. It is located in the blue spectral region and is perceived as a cool and calming color. The hexadecimal color code #040497 is composed of 2.4% red, 2.4% green, and 59.2% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (4, 4, 151). Ultramarine is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. It has been historically valued for its rich pigment and was originally derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli. In modern times, Ultramarine is widely used in various applications, including web design, graphic design, and fine art. Its deep hue and cool undertones make it an ideal color for creating a sense of depth, sophistication, and tranquility.
The color #040497, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. Its low lightness value can result in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text or graphical elements difficult to read for individuals with visual impairments. When using this color for text, it is crucial to pair it with a very light color such as white or a very pale yellow to ensure sufficient contrast, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. For larger text sizes, a slightly darker background might be acceptable, but careful consideration should always be given to readability. Avoid using #040497 for small text, icons, or interactive elements without a high-contrast background. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility requirements, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #040497 can be used as a strong accent color for headers or call-to-action buttons, provided it is paired with a contrasting background. It can also serve as a background color for sections where you want to create a sense of depth or sophistication. Consider using it sparingly to highlight important elements and maintain visual interest. Ensure that the text or icons placed on this background have sufficient contrast to meet accessibility standards. For example, use white or a light yellow for text. Furthermore, #040497 can be used to visualize code, as it is frequently used in IDEs to highlight certain elements, especially in themes where the main background is white.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies, especially when paired with lighter neutrals like beige or cream. Consider using it for accent walls, throw pillows, or decorative accessories to add a touch of elegance. Avoid using it as the primary color in small spaces, as it can make the room feel smaller and darker. Incorporate metallic accents, such as gold or silver, to enhance the richness of the color and create a luxurious feel. The color can be used for furniture too, such as sofas or armchairs.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #040497 can be used for evening wear or formal attire to convey a sense of elegance and sophistication. It works well for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and handbags. Pair it with metallic accents like silver or gold to create a glamorous look. For a more casual look, combine it with lighter denim or white to create a nautical-inspired outfit. In makeup, #040497 can be used as an eyeshadow or eyeliner to add depth and intensity to the eyes, especially when paired with warm-toned lipsticks.