Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #071591, is a deep and intense blue color. Historically, ultramarine was a pigment derived from lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized and expensive color, often associated with royalty and religious figures. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to the fact that the pigment had to be imported to Europe from mines in Asia. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it a more accessible color. It evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication, often associated with trust, authority, and intelligence. It is a non-spectral color, as it is not found in the rainbow spectrum.
The hex color #071591, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low luminance necessitates careful consideration of color contrast. When used for text, it demands a light background to ensure readability, ideally achieving a contrast ratio well above the WCAG minimum of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using it for interactive elements like buttons or links also requires distinct visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or borders, to cater to users with visual impairments or color blindness. The color should be tested with accessibility evaluation tools to avoid excluding any users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
In web design, Ultramarine can be used sparingly as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements. It is well-suited for headers, buttons, or links, especially on websites with a minimalist design. However, due to its darkness, it's crucial to pair it with lighter backgrounds and ensure sufficient contrast for readability. It can also be incorporated into brand logos and icons to convey a sense of trust, authority, and sophistication.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a bold and sophisticated look. It is well-suited for accent walls, furniture, or decorative accessories, especially in rooms with neutral color schemes. The deep blue hue adds a touch of elegance and drama to any space. When using Ultramarine in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors and natural materials to prevent the room from feeling too dark or overwhelming.
Fashion Statement Color
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine serves as a striking choice for evening wear or statement pieces. Its richness lends an air of sophistication, ideal for dresses or bold accessories like handbags or shoes. However, its intense hue necessitates careful pairing; consider lighter or neutral tones to avoid overwhelming the ensemble. When employed in smaller doses, such as in jewelry or scarves, it can introduce a vibrant pop of color, elevating the overall look with a touch of elegance and depth.