Ultramarine
General Information About Ultramarine
The hex color #080494, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It is composed of 3.14% red, 1.57% green, and 58.04% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of R:8, G:4, B:148. In the CMYK color model, its values are C:95, M:97, Y:0, K:42. Ultramarine is often associated with feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. Due to its high blue content, it can evoke a sense of tranquility and stability. In art history, Ultramarine was originally derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment. Today, it is synthetically produced but still retains its association with luxury and elegance. Its dark nature requires careful consideration of contrast when used in design, as it can easily become difficult to read against certain backgrounds.
The color #080494, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its very dark hue results in low contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and interface elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To ensure accessibility, avoid using #080494 for text or interactive elements on light backgrounds without significantly increasing the font size or adding a strong background highlight. Conversely, when using #080494 as a background, pair it with very light, high-contrast text colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays to meet accessibility standards. Careful consideration of color pairings is essential to provide an inclusive and user-friendly experience for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in verifying compliance with accessibility guidelines.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #3f51b5
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements without overwhelming the design.
- #424242
A more muted shade of blue that works well for background elements and larger surfaces.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #080494 can be used sparingly as a background color for headers or footers, providing a sophisticated and professional feel. However, it's crucial to pair it with high-contrast text to ensure readability. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or interactive elements due to accessibility concerns. Consider using it as a highlight color or for decorative elements to add depth and visual interest to the design. The color can also be implemented well for graphs and charts where differentiation between values is neccesary.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine (#080494) can be used to create a calming and luxurious atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies as an accent wall color or for upholstery. Pair it with lighter neutrals like beige or gray to balance the darkness and prevent the space from feeling too heavy. Gold or brass accents can complement the richness of the color and add a touch of elegance. This color can be implemented well in combination with furniture made out of oak.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine (#080494) can be used to create elegant and sophisticated looks. It works well for evening wear or formal attire. Pair it with metallic accessories like silver or gold to add a touch of glamour. The color can also be used as an accent in casual outfits, such as a scarf or a handbag. It is important to consider the overall color palette and ensure that the Ultramarine complements the other colors in the outfit. This deep blue hue exudes confidence and style, making it a versatile choice for various fashion applications.