Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
The hex color #080993, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and rich shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.14% red, 3.53% green, and 57.65% blue. This significant bias towards blue gives it its characteristic intense hue. Ultramarine historically comes from the pigment ground from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone, making it a highly valued color in art. It is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. In modern usage, this color evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, and confidence. Its depth allows it to be used in various design applications, ranging from branding to digital interfaces, where a sense of authority and stability is desired.
The hex color #080993, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its dark nature demands careful consideration of color contrast. Insufficient contrast between text and background can render content illegible for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with very light hues, ideally whites or very pale yellows or greens, to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Using tools to check color contrast ratios is essential. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements; provide additional cues like underlines or icons to ensure usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue, #1E90FF, provides better readability against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
Navy blue (#000080) offers a classic, sophisticated alternative with improved contrast compared to Ultramarine.
Midnight Blue (#191970) offers a dark yet softer tone, providing a less harsh visual experience compared to Ultramarine.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #080993 can be used for header backgrounds or as an accent color, provided sufficient contrast with text and other elements is ensured. Its boldness makes it suitable for drawing attention to specific sections or interactive components. However, overuse can be overwhelming, so it's best employed sparingly. It can also be used in charts and graphs to represent data, especially when combined with lighter shades to create visual hierarchy. Consider using it for branding elements where a sense of sophistication and trustworthiness is desired. Always test with accessibility tools to ensure compliance with web standards.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, especially when paired with neutral tones like gray or beige. This deep hue adds a touch of elegance and depth to a space. Furthermore, it can be incorporated through furniture pieces, such as a velvet sofa or armchairs, to introduce a pop of color without overwhelming the room. Accessories like throw pillows, curtains, and rugs in this color can also create a cohesive and stylish look.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine can be used for eye makeup to create depth and drama. It's a bold choice for eyeshadow, eyeliner or mascara. It is also usable for clothing to add sophistication and royalty. This color can be paired with neutral colors to make it a statement piece.