Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #090497, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, vivid shade of blue that evokes a sense of sophistication and depth. It falls within the blue-violet spectrum and is characterized by its high saturation and relatively low brightness. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the rare and costly mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized color in art and decoration. In modern color theory, ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as tranquility, stability, and intelligence. It is frequently used in graphic design, web development, and branding to convey a sense of trustworthiness and professionalism. The color's inherent depth also makes it a popular choice for creating visually appealing and engaging interfaces.
The color #090497, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of 0.004 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using this color for text requires extremely light background colors to meet these standards. Furthermore, avoid using this color for critical interface elements or interactive components without careful consideration of contrast. Ensure that sufficient visual cues, such as borders or icons with adequate contrast, accompany the color to enhance usability. Providing alternative high-contrast themes can also improve accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, while still maintaining a sense of depth.
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color without overpowering the design.
A more subdued blue that provides a softer, more calming effect.
Applications
Web Design and UI
Ultramarine, with its rich and profound hue, is exceptionally well-suited for creating a sense of depth and sophistication in website designs. It can be effectively used in headers, footers, or as a background for specific sections to draw attention and create visual interest. In UI design, this color can highlight key interactive elements like buttons or call-to-action prompts, lending a touch of elegance and professionalism. However, due to its darkness, it's vital to pair it with high-contrast text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Ultramarine adds a luxurious feel, ideal for brands aiming for a premium image.
Fashion and Interior Design
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine serves as a bold and captivating choice for evening wear, formal attire, or statement accessories. Its depth exudes confidence and sophistication, making it a popular selection for designers seeking to create memorable pieces. For interior design, ultramarine can be utilized as an accent color in upholstery, artwork, or decorative elements to infuse a space with elegance and visual impact. When combined with complementary colors like gold or white, it evokes a sense of opulence and luxury, elevating the overall aesthetic of the design.
Artistic Expression
Ultramarine, reminiscent of deep ocean waters and starlit skies, lends itself beautifully to artistic expression. Its intense pigment is ideal for creating dramatic landscapes, abstract compositions, and celestial-themed artworks. The color's depth can be used to evoke emotions ranging from tranquility and peace to mystery and wonder. Whether employed in paintings, digital art, or mixed media projects, ultramarine offers artists a powerful tool to capture the essence of profound themes and inspire viewers with its captivating allure.