Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine (#081393) is a deep, rich blue color that evokes feelings of sophistication and depth. Derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' it historically referred to the pigment made from lapis lazuli, a precious stone imported from Asia. This color is associated with royalty and spirituality due to its historical value and the difficulty in obtaining the pigment. In modern color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, often linked to serenity, stability, and intelligence. Its hex code, #081393, specifies its unique combination of red, green, and blue light intensities, defining its precise shade within the digital color spectrum. This precise definition allows for consistent reproduction across various media, making it a valuable tool for designers and artists alike.
The color #081393, a deep ultramarine, presents challenges for accessibility, particularly concerning text contrast. When used as a background, it necessitates very light text colors, such as white or pale yellow, to ensure readability. Conversely, if used as a text color, it requires an extremely light background. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, careful consideration and testing with accessibility tools are vital to ensure compliance and optimal user experience when incorporating this hue into digital designs. Using color combinations and tools to make web content accessible to a wider audience will drastically improve user experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design and Branding
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, serves beautifully in web design for creating a sense of sophistication and trust. It can be applied in website headers, footers, or as a primary color for interactive elements. In branding, this color can evoke feelings of stability and intelligence, making it suitable for companies aiming to project a professional image. Its boldness also makes it a suitable choice for call-to-action buttons, provided the contrast is carefully managed to maintain accessibility.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, ultramarine adds a touch of elegance and can be incorporated as an accent wall color, upholstery, or decorative accessories. Its calming effect can create a serene atmosphere, especially when combined with lighter, neutral tones. In fashion, ultramarine can be utilized in formal wear or as a striking element in accessories like scarves or handbags, offering a bold yet refined statement. The deepness of the hue will create a strong impact on people viewing the design.
Digital Art and Beauty
In digital art, ultramarine is invaluable for rendering shadows and depth, particularly in illustrations and paintings of landscapes or seascapes. The rich pigment allows artists to convey a sense of realism and emotion. In makeup, ultramarine-based eyeshadows or eyeliners can create stunning, dramatic looks, especially for those with lighter skin tones. Using gradients or shimmers together with the base color can improve the overal impression of the user.