Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #050B96, is a deep, vibrant shade of blue. 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. Throughout history, ultramarine has been highly prized by artists for its intense color and durability, often used in masterpieces to depict robes of royalty or religious figures. In color theory, ultramarine is a cool color associated with tranquility, depth, and wisdom. It evokes feelings of calmness and stability, making it a popular choice in various applications, from art and design to branding and fashion. Today, synthetic pigments have made ultramarine more accessible, but its rich history and visual impact continue to make it a sought-after color.
The hex color #050b96, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text or interactive elements, it necessitates a very light background color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Due to its dark nature, Ultramarine used against a dark background will make content illegible for users with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, careful consideration must be given to background color selection and text size to ensure readability. Alternatives to consider are lighter shades or tints of Ultramarine, or brighter, contrasting colors that complement the dark hue while maintaining accessibility. Proper testing with accessibility tools is crucial to validate compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, making it more versatile for text and UI elements.
A vibrant, contrasting color that can be used for accents and highlights to draw attention to important elements on the page.
A softer, more muted blue that provides a calming and less intense feel, suitable for backgrounds or subtle design elements.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Ultramarine, with its deep and sophisticated tone, finds excellent application in branding for financial institutions and tech companies. Its association with trust, stability, and innovation makes it a powerful choice for logos, websites, and marketing materials. The color can evoke a sense of reliability and professionalism, essential for establishing credibility in these sectors. Furthermore, Ultramarine can be effectively used in user interface design to highlight primary actions and navigation elements, providing a visually appealing and user-friendly experience. By strategically incorporating this color, companies can create a strong and memorable brand identity.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used to create elegant and sophisticated looks. A little black dress with ultramarine accessories can make a bold statement, and the color works well in both casual and formal wear. It can also be used as an accent color in footwear or handbags to add a pop of color to an outfit. The color's versatility allows it to be paired with neutrals or other vibrant colors, providing designers with a wide range of creative possibilities.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can bring depth and richness to interior spaces, working wonderfully in accent walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories. It can create a focal point in a room and add a touch of sophistication. The color pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, creating a luxurious atmosphere. For example, ultramarine throw pillows on a neutral sofa, or an ultramarine rug in a living room can add visual interest. Ultramarine also complements natural materials like wood and stone, creating a balanced and harmonious interior.