Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color code #0B0387 represents a deep, saturated shade of blue known as Ultramarine. It's created by combining a minimal amount of red and green with a significant amount of blue in the RGB color model. In the world of color theory, Ultramarine is often associated with depth, stability, and intelligence. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art. Today, it's widely used across various digital and print media for branding, web design, and artistic expression. The color's intensity makes it ideal for creating focal points and adding a touch of sophistication to designs. However, its darkness also means it requires careful consideration of contrast to ensure readability and accessibility.
The color #0B0387, a deep ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value means that text rendered in this color requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, to ensure readability, text using #0B0387 needs to be paired with a very light color for sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for larger text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using tools to check contrast ratios is essential. Avoid pairing this color with other dark shades as it can make content illegible for users, especially those with visual impairments. When used as a background, ensure that all interactive elements and text stand out clearly. Alternative solutions may involve slightly lightening the ultramarine shade or using a darker, contrasting color for improved readability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #292395
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still conveys a sense of depth and sophistication, but offers improved readability when used for text or interface elements.
- #211fff
A more vibrant blue that provides better contrast against light backgrounds, making it a suitable choice for buttons and accents.
- #000000
A dark color that works very well as a background color with bright fonts.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #0B0387 can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites related to technology, finance, or higher education. Its depth conveys trust and authority. It can also be used for highlighting key navigation elements or creating a strong visual impact in hero sections. However, care should be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements for accessibility.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent wall color in living rooms or studies to create a sense of calm and intellectual stimulation. When combined with neutral tones such as gray or beige, it can add a touch of elegance and depth to the room. This color also works well in smaller doses, such as decorative pillows, artwork, or lamps, to complement other colors within a room.
Fashion and Cosmetics
In fashion, ultramarine can be used in evening wear, formal suits, or statement accessories. Its rich hue adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to clothing, making it a suitable choice for special occasions. It is also frequently used in the cosmetic industry for eyeliners, mascaras, and eyeshadows, enhancing the natural eye color and creating a bold, captivating look.