Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#040594)
The hex color #040594, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep shade of blue. It originates from the pigment derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli. Historically, ultramarine was highly prized and expensive, often reserved for use in important artworks, especially for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings. In the RGB color model, #040594 is composed of 1.6% red, 2% green, and 58% blue. This makes it an intense blue shade with minimal contributions from red and green. In the world of art, it evokes feelings of royalty, wisdom, and spirituality and is often associated with depth, stability, and trust. Because of its rich history and cultural significance, ultramarine continues to be a popular color choice in various fields, from graphic design to fashion.
The color #040594, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance value of 0.003 means it provides very little contrast against white text or backgrounds. Consequently, it fails WCAG's AA and AAA standards for normal text sizes, requiring very large text sizes (above 24px or 19px bold) to pass even basic contrast requirements. To ensure readability and usability for all users, especially those with visual impairments, pairing this color with a much lighter color is crucial. Consider using white or very light shades of yellow or cyan for text or interactive elements placed on an ultramarine background. Avoid using this color for important visual cues without accompanying text or high-contrast icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
Ultramarine is an excellent choice for backgrounds in web design when aiming for a sophisticated and trustworthy feel. It works well in the financial and technology sectors. Ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements by using light text colors or applying a subtle overlay. This creates a visually appealing and easily navigable website.
High-Fashion Accents
In fashion, ultramarine can be incorporated into evening wear or statement pieces, lending an air of elegance and exclusivity. When combined with metallic accents like gold or silver, it creates a luxurious feel. For more casual applications, consider using ultramarine as an accent color in accessories or outerwear to add a touch of sophistication.
Interior Design Accent Walls
Ultramarine walls create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It is best suited for bedrooms or studies where a sense of tranquility is desired. Balance the intensity of the color by using neutral or light-colored furniture and decor. Accents like white trim, natural wood, and soft lighting will help to soften the space and make it feel more inviting.