Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#050197)
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #050197, is a deep, vivid blue color that evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and tranquility. Its name originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, imported from faraway lands. Historically, ultramarine was highly valued and reserved for significant works of art, often used to depict the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings. In the realm of color psychology, ultramarine is associated with intelligence, trust, and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs that aim to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. The color’s inherent intensity makes it suitable for applications where a strong visual impact is desired, while its calming undertones allow for its use in designs that seek to create a sense of serenity and peace.
The hex color #050197, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Due to its very dark hue and low luminance, text rendered in this color against a white or light background will likely have poor contrast, making it difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To ensure accessibility, it's imperative to pair Ultramarine with very light colors, such as white (#FFFFFF) or pale yellows (#FFFFE0). When using #050197 for interactive elements like buttons or links, consider implementing hover and focus states that significantly alter the color to provide clear visual cues. Additionally, avoid using this color for critical information or instructions that need to be easily discernible by all users, including those with color vision deficiencies or low vision. Providing alternative color schemes or allowing users to customize the color display settings can greatly improve the overall accessibility of the design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Backgrounds and Data Visualization
Ultramarine's depth makes it suitable for backgrounds, especially in designs that require a sense of sophistication or mystery. It can effectively create a focal point when paired with lighter elements or text. The color can also be employed in data visualization, where darker shades indicate higher values or denser data sets, enhancing the overall interpretability of complex information. In user interfaces, ultramarine can define primary navigation elements or call-to-action buttons, lending a sense of authority and clarity to the user experience.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine serves as a timeless choice for formal wear, evening gowns, and sophisticated accessories. Its deep hue conveys elegance and complements various skin tones, making it a popular selection for designers aiming to create a classic yet contemporary aesthetic. Moreover, Ultramarine can be seamlessly integrated into casual wear, such as denim and knitwear, offering a versatile option for everyday attire. Its rich pigmentation adds depth and dimension to fabrics, enhancing the overall visual appeal of garments.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In beauty, ultramarine eyeshadows or eyeliners can make brown eyes pop and add a striking depth to other eye colors. The color's intensity allows for creating dramatic and captivating makeup looks, ideal for special occasions or evening events. Nail polishes in ultramarine shades are also a popular choice, offering a sophisticated and chic alternative to traditional reds or pinks. In hair coloring, ultramarine can be used to create subtle blue undertones in dark hair, adding dimension and depth without being overly bold or artificial.