Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#0A168E)
The hexadecimal color code #0A168E represents a specific shade of deep blue, often referred to as ultramarine. It is composed of 3.92% red, 8.63% green, and 55.69% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 10 red, 22 green, and 142 blue. The color's presence is predominantly blue, contributing to its rich, deep hue. Originating from the pigment derived from the mineral lapis lazuli, ultramarine has historically been prized for its vibrant and lasting color. In modern usage, it evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. This color is often associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. Therefore, it finds use across various design applications, from corporate branding to artistic expressions.
The color #0A168E, a deep ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color, it requires a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This dark blue shade may struggle to meet these ratios with many common background colors. Therefore, careful consideration is needed in selecting appropriate accompanying colors. Using tools to measure color contrast is crucial to ensure that the content is accessible to a wide range of users. It’s advisable to pair it with colors like #FFFFFF (white) or very light shades of yellow or gray to achieve the necessary contrast levels. Also, avoid using it for crucial UI elements without proper contrast, as it can lead to a poor user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, this shade of ultramarine can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or call-to-action buttons, especially for sites aiming for a professional or trustworthy aesthetic. It can also be effectively used in data visualizations to represent key data points, offering a visually distinct element in charts and graphs. Furthermore, its depth can be employed in website footers to create a sense of closure and solidify the brand's identity. When using it for text, ensure high contrast with a light color to maintain readability and accessibility for all users. The color could also be implemented to highlight different sections of a website, such as a product comparison chart.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine (#0A168E) can be used as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works well in studies or libraries, creating a calming and intellectual atmosphere. Consider using it on accent walls, bookshelves, or decorative pillows. It pairs beautifully with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. A room with light-colored walls and ultramarine accents can feel both spacious and cozy. However, it is best to avoid using this color in small, confined spaces as it can make the area feel even smaller and darker.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine (#0A168E) can be used in evening wear or formal attire to convey elegance and sophistication. It can also be used in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. In makeup, it can be used as an eyeshadow or eyeliner to create a dramatic look. As it is a more saturated color, use it to bring attention to certain parts of your outfit or makeup, or combine it with more neutral colors. Using ultramarine for a monochromatic look may be too much.