Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0B11A8, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and prized pigments used by Renaissance artists. Its name literally means "beyond the sea," referring to its origin from central Asia. In color theory, Ultramarine evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. It is often associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. In modern usage, Ultramarine remains a popular choice for branding, graphic design, and web design, often employed to convey a sense of professionalism, reliability, and sophistication. Its rich hue also makes it a favorite in artistic endeavors and decorative applications.
The hex color #0B11A8, Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Using white text on an Ultramarine background might meet the contrast requirements for large text, but it likely fails for normal text sizes. To enhance accessibility, consider using lighter shades of blues or vibrant yellows and oranges for foreground elements. Additionally, providing alternative text descriptions for images or icons using this color is crucial for users relying on screen readers. Designers should also avoid using #0B11A8 as the sole indicator for interactive elements, as colorblind users may not perceive the difference.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast for text and interface elements, improving readability and accessibility.
A vibrant color that complements Ultramarine well and can be used for accents or highlights, creating visual interest without compromising accessibility.
A dark tone blue that can be used for text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sense of sophistication and trust. It can also be used sparingly for buttons or icons to draw attention to specific interactive elements. However, it is important to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain readability and accessibility. A good approach is to use it as an accent color rather than a primary color, combined with lighter, more neutral background colors.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accessories. When using Ultramarine in a room, it is important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or heavy. Consider pairing it with white, cream, or light gray to create a balanced and harmonious environment. Metallic accents such as gold or silver can also complement Ultramarine beautifully.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used for clothing or accessories. It is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, and it looks great on a variety of skin tones. An ultramarine dress can be paired with neutral accessories for a classic look, or with bold colors for a more daring outfit. Ultramarine is especially striking when used in evening wear.