Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #080296, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Its name originates from the pigment derived from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone historically imported from overseas ('ultra mare' in Latin). Ultramarine has been prized throughout history for its rich and vibrant hue, often associated with royalty and divinity, and has been used extensively in Renaissance paintings. In the RGB color model, #080296 is composed of 3.14% red, 0.78% green, and 58.82% blue. This composition explains its strong blue presence, with negligible amounts of red and green contributing to the overall darkness and depth of the color. Ultramarine is often associated with feelings of calmness, serenity, and authority.
The hex color #080296, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its very dark hue results in extremely low contrast against typical light backgrounds, such as white or light gray. This low contrast can make text or interactive elements difficult, if not impossible, for users with visual impairments to discern. Individuals with low vision, color blindness, or general visual sensitivities will struggle to read text or identify actionable components rendered in this color against a light backdrop. Therefore, it is crucial to use #080296 sparingly and always ensure sufficient contrast. When using this color for text or important UI elements, pair it with a very light color, ideally white or a very pale yellow, and conduct thorough accessibility testing to confirm compliance with WCAG guidelines. Considering alternative, lighter shades for interactive elements is highly recommended.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Hero Section Background
In web design, Ultramarine (#080296) can be used as a background for hero sections or banners to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, due to its dark nature, it's essential to use it sparingly and complement it with contrasting light-colored text and visual elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It is suited for websites targeting law firms, financial institutions or universities where a sense of tradition and authority is desired. To use it properly, headings should be in white and body text in a light grey.
Accent Wall Color
In interior design, Ultramarine (#080296) can add a touch of elegance and drama to a space. It can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, paired with neutral furniture and light-colored accessories to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. The dark color absorbs light, so it is best used in rooms with lots of natural light or when complemented with bright lighting fixtures. Ultramarine may make a small room feel smaller, so it should be carefully considered.
Fashion Apparel and Accessories
In fashion, Ultramarine (#080296) can be used to create bold and sophisticated looks. It can be incorporated into evening gowns, suits, or accessories like handbags and scarves. When used in clothing, it's often paired with metallic accents or contrasting colors like gold or silver to add visual interest. Ultramarine can also be an interesting color choice for nail polish or eyeliner to create a striking effect. When wearing Ultramarine as a single block color, care must be taken to match the right skin tone.