Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #061595, is a deep, vivid blue hue known for its historical significance and modern applications. Derived from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," the pigment was originally made from ground lapis lazuli, a precious stone imported from Afghanistan. This made it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments during the medieval and Renaissance periods, often reserved for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, retaining the color's characteristic brilliance at a fraction of the cost. Its rich, intense color makes it suitable for various applications, from digital design to textile production.
The color #061595, a deep ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value requires careful consideration of color contrast ratios. When used as text, it demands a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid pairing it with dark or similarly saturated colors. Consider providing alternative styling options, such as high-contrast modes, to ensure inclusivity. Using this color for essential UI elements necessitates thorough testing with assistive technologies to guarantee usability for all users. Furthermore, avoid using it as the sole indicator for interactive elements; supplement with labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design for Trust
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep tone, lends itself beautifully to creating a sense of sophistication and trust in web design. It's perfect for financial institutions, law firms, or educational platforms aiming to project reliability and expertise. Consider using it for primary navigation elements, call-to-action buttons, or section headers to draw attention without overwhelming the user. In branding, it's ideal for logos and marketing materials that need to convey stability and professionalism. Furthermore, it can be incorporated into data visualizations to represent important metrics or trends, adding a touch of elegance to complex information.
Interior Design for Serenity
Ultramarine evokes feelings of tranquility and sophistication, making it a popular choice in interior design for creating serene and stylish spaces. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to add depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space. It pairs well with neutral tones like gray, white, and beige, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. Ultramarine can also be incorporated through textiles such as curtains, cushions, and rugs to add pops of color and texture. In furniture, it can be used for upholstery or painted accents to create focal points and enhance the overall aesthetic.
Fashion Statement
Ultramarine's bold and captivating nature makes it an excellent option for adding a touch of drama and sophistication to fashion ensembles. It is suited for evening wear, such as gowns and cocktail dresses, where it can create a striking and memorable impression. In accessories, like scarves, handbags, or jewelry, ultramarine provides a pop of color against neutral outfits. Additionally, it works well in footwear, such as heels or flats, to add a stylish accent. Consider using ultramarine as a statement color in seasonal collections, particularly for fall and winter wardrobes, where its depth and richness can be beautifully highlighted.