Ultramarine
General Information about #090197
The hex color #090197 is a dark shade of blue, often described as ultramarine. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.53% red, 0.39% green, and 59.22% blue. This strong presence of blue gives it its characteristic deep and rich hue. In the HSL color space, it has a hue of 247 degrees, a saturation of 99%, and a lightness of 30%. This color is often associated with depth, stability, and trustworthiness, and may evoke feelings of calmness and serenity. It is frequently used in contexts where reliability and authority are desired. Due to its high blue content and low red and green, this color can appear quite cool and intense. Understanding its composition helps in selecting appropriate color pairings and applications to achieve the desired aesthetic effect.
The color #090197, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance value of 0.002 necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. For normal text (smaller than 18pt), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required, while for large text (18pt and larger or 14pt bold and larger), a ratio of 3:1 is necessary. Given its darkness, #090197 demands very light foreground colors to meet these standards. White or very light shades of yellow or cyan could provide adequate contrast. It is essential to test color combinations using accessibility tools to ensure compliance and optimal readability for all users. Avoid pairing this color with mid-tone or dark shades as it will render the text unreadable for many users. The deep hue may also cause issues for individuals with color vision deficiencies, so alternative color schemes should be considered to ensure information is conveyed effectively to everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #290398
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1905ab
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention and improve visibility.
- #330066
A dark, muted purple, offering a similar deep tone but with a touch more warmth, potentially providing slightly improved readability against certain backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, this color can be used for backgrounds or accents, especially when aiming for a sophisticated or mysterious feel. However, due to its darkness, it's crucial to pair it with very light text to ensure readability. It can be effective for headers, navigation bars, or as a subtle overlay on images to create depth. Ensure sufficient contrast ratio, particularly if used for interactive elements, adhering to WCAG guidelines. The color's intensity lends itself well to creating a sense of importance or formality, making it suitable for professional or institutional websites. This color can also be used for infographics to visually represent data.
Beauty
In the beauty industry, ultramarine hues are frequently used in eyeshadows, eyeliners, and nail polishes to add depth and drama. This particular shade would be ideal for creating a striking smoky eye look or as an accent color in nail art. It can be combined with shimmering silvers or golds for an opulent effect, or paired with lighter blues and purples for a more ethereal and playful appearance. Its rich pigment allows for intense color payoff and can complement a variety of skin tones, though it is especially flattering on those with cooler undertones. The boldness of the color makes it appropriate for evening wear or special occasions, allowing the consumer to feel elegant and empowered.
Interior Design
In interior design, this deep ultramarine can be utilized as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to create a focal point and evoke feelings of tranquility and sophistication. It pairs exceptionally well with light-colored furniture and accents, such as white or cream sofas, light wood tables, and metallic decor items. To avoid overwhelming the space, it's best to use this color sparingly, perhaps in artwork, rugs, or throw pillows. It can also be effectively incorporated into a home office to promote focus and concentration, lending a sense of calm to the workspace. Complementary colors, such as yellows or oranges, can be used to balance the coolness of the blue.