Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hexadecimal color #040793, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep shade of blue residing within the blue color family. It's characterized by its low saturation and high darkness, conveying a sense of depth, mystery, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.57% red, 2.75% green, and 57.65% blue. This means that the blue component is significantly dominant, contributing to the color's distinct blue hue. Ultramarine's historical significance stems from its origin as a pigment derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. This made it a highly prized color in art, reserved for depicting important figures and religious scenes. Today, it is synthetically produced, making it more accessible for various applications.
The color #040793, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value (very dark) results in poor contrast against typical light backgrounds, making text and interface elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, this color fails all contrast ratio tests against white. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with very light shades, such as white (#FFFFFF) or light yellows, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using this color for essential interactive elements or informational text without careful consideration of contrast. Providing alternative high-contrast themes can also improve the user experience for those with visual sensitivities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
Ultramarine can be used sparingly in web design to highlight specific elements or create a sense of depth. Use it for background accents in hero sections paired with light text. This color works well for navigation menus as a hover color, but always ensure sufficient contrast for readability. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or primary interactive elements without careful consideration of accessibility guidelines. It can also add a sophisticated touch to data visualizations, representing specific categories or trends. However, exercise caution to avoid overwhelming the user with too much dark color.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine adds an element of boldness and sophistication, making it suitable for evening wear, formal events, or statement pieces. It can be used as a dominant color in dresses or suits, but be mindful of accessorizing with lighter colors or metallic accents for visual balance. This shade is also suited for accessories, such as handbags or shoes, adding a pop of color to a more neutral outfit. Consider incorporating ultramarine into makeup looks, such as eyeliner or eyeshadow, to complement and enhance a variety of skin tones, creating a striking visual effect.
Interior Design Accent
For interior design, ultramarine can create a focal point in a room or add depth and richness to a space. Use it as an accent wall in a living room or bedroom to introduce a sense of drama. Consider incorporating ultramarine furniture pieces, such as a velvet sofa or accent chairs, to create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Pair it with lighter colors, such as white or gray, to balance the intensity and prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Additionally, this color works well in artwork or decorative objects, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any interior.