Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #081193, is a deep, rich blue color reminiscent of the pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its historical origins as an imported pigment. Ultramarine is a tertiary color, created by mixing primary blue with violet. In color theory, it is known for its association with depth, stability, and authority. Because of its dark nature, it is best used sparingly or as an accent color, often paired with lighter or complementary colors to avoid a sense of darkness or depression. Historically, ultramarine was highly prized for its brilliance and permanence, making it a favorite among Renaissance painters. This color has a long tradition and is still used today.
The color #081193, a deep ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges. Its low lightness value (around 3%) results in poor contrast against standard white backgrounds, making text illegible for many users, especially those with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine fails to meet these requirements when paired with white or light backgrounds. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of blue or pairing it with contrasting colors like yellow or white. Ensure sufficient contrast in text and interactive elements to accommodate users with varying visual abilities. Proper contrast enhances readability and ensures a more inclusive user experience. Careful evaluation and testing are crucial to confirm accessibility compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
A more vibrant blue that can be used to create eye-catching accents while maintaining sufficient contrast.
A dark gray provides good contrast as an alternative text color on light backgrounds.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Ultramarine is often used in website designs that aim to convey trust, stability, and professionalism. Its deep, rich tone can be used for headings, navigation bars, and background accents, especially for corporate websites or financial institutions. The color evokes feelings of security and reliability. It is best used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user, often paired with lighter complementary colors like white or light grays for balance. Ultramarine is also well-suited for highlighting important calls to action or creating a sophisticated visual hierarchy. The use of this color needs to be carefully balanced to ensure accessibility.
Fashion Design
Ultramarine adds a touch of elegance and depth to fashion designs, commonly used in evening gowns, formal wear, and accessories. It is a timeless and classic color which gives it a formal tone. It can be paired with metallic accents such as gold or silver for a luxurious look, or with lighter shades of blue or white for a more casual, nautical-inspired style. Ultramarine also finds application in creating striking contrasts when combined with warm colors like orange or yellow. Ultramarine is also suitable for use in shoes, bags or similar fashion products.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can be used as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works well on feature walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories like vases and artwork. When used as the main color, ultramarine can create a calming and serene atmosphere, making it suitable for bedrooms or living rooms. Ultramarine also pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the feeling of warmth and earthiness. The colour can be used in combination with gold accents or other luxury components to create a rich ambiance.