Ultramarine
General Information about #090B8F (Ultramarine)
The hex color code #090B8F represents a deep, saturated shade of blue known as Ultramarine. It falls within the blue color family and is characterized by its high intensity and slightly violet undertone. In the RGB color model, #090B8F is composed of 3.53% red, 4.31% green, and 56.08% blue. This significant dominance of blue contributes to its characteristic hue. The color's CMYK values are 0.94, 0.90, 0.00, 0.44, meaning it requires a high proportion of cyan and magenta to achieve its specific shade. Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, trust, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding, design, and art where these concepts are desired. Its historical significance dates back centuries, where it was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli.
The color #090B8F, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value of approximately 0.003 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. Given the darkness of this color, only very light shades of white or yellow would likely meet these contrast requirements. Developers should exercise caution and rigorously test color combinations to ensure readability. Using this color for text on a dark background is strongly discouraged. If used as a background, ensure that the foreground elements have sufficient contrast and are easily distinguishable. Furthermore, consider providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with diverse visual needs, such as those with color blindness or low vision. Relying solely on color to convey information is also discouraged; supplement with text labels or other visual cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #292D9A
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, enhancing readability and overall accessibility.
- #3F51B5
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to key elements while still maintaining a level of sophistication and visual appeal.
- #5C6BC0
A muted, desaturated blue that offers a softer and more subtle aesthetic, suitable for backgrounds or less important design elements.
Applications
Web Design Accent
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, serves as an excellent accent color in web design. Use it for call-to-action buttons, highlights, or borders to draw attention without overwhelming the user interface. Its association with trust and authority makes it suitable for financial or corporate websites aiming to convey stability and reliability. Balance it with lighter, complementary colors to create a visually appealing and accessible design.
Cosmetics and Beauty
In the realm of beauty and cosmetics, Ultramarine can be incorporated into eyeshadow palettes to create dramatic and captivating looks. Its intense pigment provides depth and dimension, ideal for smoky eyes or evening wear. When combined with lighter shimmers or metallic shades, it adds a touch of luxury and sophistication. Consider its use in eyeliners and mascaras for a bold, standout effect.
Interior Design Feature
Ultramarine, reminiscent of deep ocean waters and starry night skies, introduces a serene yet commanding presence within interior design. It is well-suited for creating a feature wall in a living room or bedroom, providing a focal point that exudes tranquility and depth. Complement this shade with lighter neutrals, such as creams, grays, or whites, to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed. Accents of metallic gold or brass can enhance its richness and create a sense of luxury.