Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #051396, is a deep, intense blue color often associated with royalty, wisdom, and sophistication. It is a color traditionally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it historically expensive and highly valued. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, which can evoke feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. Its high saturation makes it a powerful color choice, often used to draw attention or create a sense of depth. However, due to its darkness, it should be used judiciously, especially in digital design, to ensure readability and accessibility. Ultramarine's rich history and striking visual impact make it a versatile color for various applications.

The hex color #051396, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against light backgrounds, potentially making text or interface elements unreadable. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for ensuring content is perceivable. To improve accessibility, it is strongly advised to use this color with very light backgrounds or incorporate it sparingly in designs where readability is not paramount. Pairing #051396 with colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light yellows or greens can help increase contrast ratios. Furthermore, providing alternative text descriptions for images and other visual elements is essential for users who rely on screen readers. Designers should always test color combinations using accessibility checkers to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive user experience.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, Ultramarine (#051396) can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication, especially in headers, footers, or as an accent color for interactive elements. It should be paired with lighter colors for text and other content to ensure readability. For example, using it for a website's navigation bar with white text can create a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. It can also be used to highlight important buttons or calls to action, drawing the user's attention to key elements on the page. When used sparingly and thoughtfully, Ultramarine can enhance the overall aesthetic and usability of a website.

• Fashion

  In the fashion industry, Ultramarine is often used to create bold and dramatic looks. It can be incorporated into evening gowns, suits, or accessories like scarves and handbags. Because of its intensity, it often serves as a statement color, drawing attention and exuding confidence. Designers might pair it with neutral colors such as gray, black, or white to balance the boldness, or combine it with contrasting colors like gold or silver for a more luxurious effect. Ultramarine's depth also makes it ideal for creating textures and patterns, adding visual interest to garments.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ultramarine (#051396) can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies, especially when paired with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white. For example, an Ultramarine accent wall can add depth and character to a room, while Ultramarine throw pillows or artwork can provide pops of color without overwhelming the space. It can also be used in smaller spaces like bathrooms or hallways to create a sense of intimacy and drama. When using Ultramarine in interior design, it is important to balance it with lighter colors and natural light to prevent the space from feeling too dark or claustrophobic.

Complementary color

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