Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#0A0395)
The hex color #0A0395 is a deep, saturated shade of blue known as Ultramarine. It belongs to the blue color family and exhibits characteristics of both strength and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #0A0395 is composed of 3.92% red, 1.18% green, and 58.43% blue. This composition results in a color that is perceived as calming yet authoritative. Ultramarine's hexadecimal representation allows for precise color specification in digital design, ensuring consistent display across different devices and platforms. This color finds applications in diverse fields, ranging from web design and graphic arts to fashion and interior decor, owing to its versatility and ability to evoke a sense of trust and stability. Its prominence has been steady throughout history due to its availability and lasting appeal.
The hex color #0A0395, a deep ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low lightness value means text rendered in this color will require careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. For normal text (14pt bold/18pt regular and up), a contrast ratio of 4.5:1 is recommended, while for large text (18pt bold/24pt regular and up), a ratio of 3:1 is needed. When using #0A0395 for text, a very light color such as #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 should be considered for the background to meet these ratios. If #0A0395 is used as a background, similarly light text is required. Using online contrast checkers is advisable during development to ensure accessibility standards are met, creating a more inclusive web experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2E3192
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the depth of ultramarine but improves readability against darker backgrounds.
- #436B95
A more saturated blue that offers a vibrant alternative while still providing a strong, confident feel.
- #000080
A dark navy blue that provides high contrast when paired with light text, ensuring better accessibility.
Applications
Website Design for Trust and Authority
Ultramarine (#0A0395) can be used as a primary color for a website design intended to convey trust, authority, and stability. Its depth evokes a sense of reliability, making it suitable for financial institutions, government agencies, or educational platforms. The color can be paired with lighter shades of blue or neutral tones like gray and white to create a clean and professional interface. Furthermore, its rich tone can effectively highlight important calls to action, drawing the user's eye to key interactive elements.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, ultramarine serves as an accent color to add sophistication and depth to a room. It can be used on a feature wall or in decorative elements such as cushions, artwork, or vases. When paired with warm neutral colors like beige or cream, ultramarine creates a balanced and inviting space. The color's ability to evoke a sense of calm makes it particularly suitable for bedrooms or living rooms where relaxation is paramount. It's important to use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space, creating a focal point rather than a dominant presence.
Fashion Accent Color
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine adds a pop of color to an otherwise muted wardrobe. Use it in accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes to create a visually interesting ensemble. A dark blue dress or jacket may convey a sense of classic sophistication, which may be tempered with lighter accessories for contrast. Ultramarine also works well with other jewel tones, like emerald green or ruby red, for a striking and daring appearance.