Ultramarine
General Information
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #080F93, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Its name is derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally made from lapis lazuli imported from Asia. Historically, Ultramarine was highly prized as a pigment for paintings and textiles due to its rich color and rarity. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with depth, stability, and intelligence. In modern applications, Ultramarine is used in various fields, including digital design, fashion, and cosmetics. The color's intensity and depth make it a popular choice for creating a sense of sophistication and trustworthiness in visual communications.
The color #080F93, Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, ideally adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards, which mandate a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using darker shades of text on an Ultramarine background can make it extremely difficult for users with visual impairments to read the content. In UI design, consider using Ultramarine sparingly, perhaps as an accent color rather than for large surfaces. Pairing it with lighter, more neutral colors for text and interactive elements can improve the overall accessibility and user experience, ensuring that the design is inclusive and usable by everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better readability when used with dark text.
A more neutral blue that provides a softer contrast and is easier on the eyes.
A vibrant blue, which can be used as an accent color. It works better for accessibility as it is lighter than Ultramarine.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be employed to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel, particularly for financial or corporate websites. It is best used as an accent color for buttons, headers, or graphical elements rather than as a primary background due to its darkness. When implementing Ultramarine, ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements to meet accessibility standards. For example, pairing it with a light yellow or white text can create a visually appealing and accessible design. Consider using it in combination with lighter shades of blue or neutral colors to balance the overall aesthetic and enhance usability.
Beauty and Cosmetics
Ultramarine is frequently used in beauty and cosmetics, especially in eye makeup such as eyeshadows and eyeliners, to create a bold and dramatic look. It is also popular in nail polish formulations. The color's intensity adds depth and allure, making it suitable for evening wear or special occasions. When used in product packaging, Ultramarine can convey a sense of luxury and sophistication, appealing to consumers seeking high-quality beauty products. The rich pigment provides excellent color payoff and can be blended with other shades to create unique and personalized makeup styles. Complementary colors, like gold or bronze, enhance the vibrancy of Ultramarine in makeup applications.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine adds a touch of sophistication and elegance. It is often used in evening gowns, suits, and statement pieces to create a bold and memorable impression. The deep blue hue works well in both silk and velvet fabrics, enhancing the richness of the color. Ultramarine accessories, such as scarves, handbags, and jewelry, can elevate an outfit and add a pop of color. Designers often pair Ultramarine with contrasting colors like white, gold, or silver to create visually stunning combinations. It's a versatile color that complements a wide range of skin tones, making it a popular choice for both casual and formal wear. Combining Ultramarine with neutral tones can also create a balanced and refined look.