Ultramarine
General Information about #090494
The hex color code #090494 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Ultramarine. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.53% red, 1.57% green, and 58.04% blue. This combination results in a color that is perceived as deep, rich, and somewhat mysterious. Ultramarine historically comes from the pigment made by grinding lapis lazuli into a powder. The color is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality due to its historical rarity and expense. Its usage can evoke feelings of depth, intelligence, and calmness. In web design and graphic arts, ultramarine can add a sense of sophistication and elegance, but care should be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with other elements for accessibility.
The color #090494, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low luminance of 2.3 cd/m² results in poor contrast against standard white backgrounds, failing WCAG's AA and AAA compliance for normal text. Using this color for text requires careful consideration; foreground text color should be a very light hue, such as white or a light yellow (#FFFFFF or #FFFFE0), to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. For graphical elements and user interface components, a minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 is necessary, but 4.5:1 is preferable for optimal accessibility. It is advisable to use contrast checking tools during development to confirm adherence to accessibility standards. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey crucial information, as users with color vision deficiencies may not perceive the difference effectively. Providing alternative visual cues, such as labels or patterns, is essential to ensure inclusivity and usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability and accessibility.
- #0d47a1
A more saturated blue that can be used to create visually striking accents and highlights.
- #000010
A very dark color that is close to black and that provides high contrast when used as a background with white text.
Applications
Meditation and Mindfulness Websites
Ultramarine (#090494) evokes feelings of calmness and depth, making it suitable for websites related to meditation, mindfulness, or mental health. Its association with the ocean and sky can create a sense of tranquility and expansiveness, which can be beneficial for users seeking relaxation and stress relief. This color can be used in website backgrounds, headers, and call-to-action buttons to create a serene and inviting atmosphere. When combined with softer complementary colors, such as light yellows or creams, it can enhance the overall visual appeal and create a balanced and harmonious user experience.
Fashion and Apparel Design
In fashion, ultramarine adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to clothing and accessories. It's a versatile color that can be used in both casual and formal wear. It can be paired with neutral colors like white, black, and gray for a classic look, or combined with bolder colors like red or yellow for a more vibrant and eye-catching ensemble. Ultramarine accessories, such as scarves or handbags, can add a pop of color to an outfit without being too overwhelming. Additionally, it is a color that is often seen as symbol for loyalty and can be used to show this value to others.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, ultramarine (#090494) can be used as an accent color to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It works well in rooms with natural light, where its richness can be fully appreciated. It can be used on walls, furniture, or decorative accessories, and pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige. Ultramarine can also be combined with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, for a luxurious and elegant look. Be careful to not overuse this color, as it may make a room look dark and cramped.