Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #040695, commonly referred to as Ultramarine, is a deep, intense shade of blue. It falls within the dark blue color spectrum and is characterized by its strong saturation and relatively low lightness. In the RGB color model, #040695 is composed of 1.57% red, 2.35% green, and 58.43% blue. This composition explains the color's pronounced blue hue. Ultramarine, historically, was derived from the mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment used in paintings and other forms of art. Today, synthetic versions allow for broader application across various industries, including textiles, plastics, and coatings. Its dark and captivating nature makes it suitable for creating a sense of depth, luxury, or mystery in visual designs.
The hex color #040695, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against light backgrounds, making text or graphical elements difficult to discern. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. To ensure accessibility, web developers should avoid using #040695 for text or important interface elements on light backgrounds. If it is necessary, consider using a very light color such as #ffffff or #f0f0f0 as a foreground to achieve acceptable contrast ratios. Tools like contrast checkers can help measure and verify compliance with accessibility standards. In situations where Ultramarine is part of a brand identity, explore alternative color combinations that maintain brand recognition while prioritizing accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e3192
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #436b95
A brighter, more vibrant blue that can draw attention without compromising readability when paired with appropriate foreground colors.
- #4b0082
A shade close to Indigo. Has better legibility
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine can serve as an accent color for headers or background sections to evoke a sense of depth and sophistication. Due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly and paired with light text to ensure readability. For example, a tech company might use #040695 in its website's navigation bar to create a modern and professional feel, complementing it with white or light gray text. It's also suitable for interactive elements like buttons, where a hover effect changes the color to a lighter shade, providing visual feedback to the user. Its use should be tested across various devices and screen sizes to maintain visual consistency.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used in garments such as evening gowns, suits, or accessories to add a touch of elegance and mystery. A silk Ultramarine scarf or a velvet blazer in this hue can make a bold statement. When combined with metallic accents like gold or silver, it enhances the luxurious feel. The color is also suitable for creating a contrasting element in a more vibrant outfit, providing depth and balance. Designers can utilize this deep blue to create both classic and contemporary designs that stand out from the crowd, and is often found in formal wear or high end fashion lines.
Interior applications
For interior design, Ultramarine walls are often used to create a sophisticated study. The dark blue inspires deep thoughts and can be combined with wooden furnitures. Ultramarine tiles can be used in bathrooms and kitchens. In general the color can be used at small spots to highlight specific areas. In combination with art it creates a noble surrounding.