Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#0A0C8E)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0A0C8E, is a deep, rich shade of blue. Historically, the pigment was originally derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly valued colors in art. Today, synthetic versions of ultramarine are widely available, retaining the hue's characteristic brilliance and depth without the exorbitant cost. In the RGB color model, #0A0C8E consists of 3.92% red, 4.71% green, and 55.69% blue. Its corresponding values in the CMYK color model are Cyan: 93%, Magenta: 91%, Yellow: 0%, and Black: 44%. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, serenity, and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various design applications.
The hex color #0A0C8E, also known as Ultramarine, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. It's crucial to avoid pairing this color with darker shades or colors with similar luminance, as this can make content illegible for users, especially those with visual impairments. Careful consideration should be given to users with color blindness, who may struggle to distinguish content if relying solely on color to convey information. Using supplementary cues like text labels or icons can significantly improve accessibility. Proper testing with accessibility tools is vital before deployment.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e3192
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while offering better contrast with dark text.
- #483d8b
A more desaturated blue which can provide a softer feel and improved accessibility in certain contexts.
- #1e90ff
A vivid blue providing a brighter alternative while retaining some of the depth of ultramarine.
Applications
Website Hero Background
Ultramarine (#0A0C8E) can serve as a striking background for website hero sections, especially for technology or innovation-focused companies. Its depth evokes feelings of trust and reliability, engaging visitors immediately. When combined with clean, white typography and minimalist design elements, it helps to create a professional and modern aesthetic. Consider using subtle animations or gradients within the background to enhance visual interest without compromising readability or user experience. Ensure that call-to-action buttons are designed with contrasting colors to draw attention and guide users effectively.
Fashion Accent Color
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color for evening wear or formal attire. A silk scarf or pocket square in this shade can add a touch of sophistication to a neutral outfit. It also works well in jewelry, particularly when paired with silver or white gold. For makeup, Ultramarine eyeshadow can create a dramatic and captivating look, especially when blended with lighter shades to create depth. Its use should be balanced to prevent it from overpowering the overall aesthetic, allowing it to complement rather than dominate.
Interior Design Feature
For interior design, Ultramarine can be used as a feature wall color in a living room or study. It creates a sense of depth and tranquility, making the space feel larger and more inviting. It pairs well with neutral furniture in shades of gray, white, or beige. Accents of metallic gold or copper can also complement the color beautifully, adding a touch of luxury. Consider using it sparingly in smaller rooms, as too much dark color can make the space feel confined. Alternatively, it can be used in decorative accessories such as cushions, throws, or artwork.