Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0B178D, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and sophistication. The color's name originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, which was imported from overseas. In color psychology, Ultramarine is often linked to feelings of calmness and reflection. It is a color that can evoke a sense of trust and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aimed at conveying reliability. The hex code #0B178D breaks down into 4.39% red, 9.02% green, and 55.3% blue, indicating a strong dominance of blue within its composition. This color is relatively dark, which means that it requires careful consideration when used in design to ensure sufficient contrast and readability, especially with text.
The hex color #0B178D, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. When used as a background color, sufficient contrast with text is crucial for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between the text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Given the darkness of Ultramarine, only very light colors like white or light yellow are likely to meet these contrast requirements. Using darker text colors on an Ultramarine background will likely result in poor readability, especially for users with visual impairments. It is essential to test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Designers should consider using Ultramarine sparingly, perhaps as an accent color, or pairing it with a much lighter background to maintain accessibility standards. Also avoid using it for important information if a lighter color cannot be used for the text. The same principle can be used if the Ultramarine is used for a text color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast for text and other elements, improving readability and accessibility.
- #cccccc
A neutral gray that works well as a background color, providing a balanced contrast for a variety of text colors.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant blue that is more eye-catching while still maintaining sufficient contrast for readability when paired with white or light-colored text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It is best applied sparingly, such as in headers, borders, or as an accent color for buttons and icons. When using Ultramarine as a background, ensure that the text color provides sufficient contrast for readability, which means that you should use very light text colors. Avoid using it as the primary background color for large blocks of text, as it can strain the eyes. Combining it with lighter, complementary colors can create a visually appealing and balanced interface. It is a good choice for websites targeting a professional or mature audience.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine can be incorporated into clothing designs to evoke a sense of elegance and mystery. It works particularly well in evening wear or formal attire. Ultramarine can be paired with metallic accents like silver or gold to enhance its richness. As a dominant color, it can make a bold statement, while as an accent, it can add a touch of sophistication to more muted palettes. Use it to create unique designs that make a statement. It should be combined with other colors that are light enough to create a balance.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a focal point in a room. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for furniture pieces like sofas or chairs. When using Ultramarine in a room, it is important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Neutral colors like white, beige, or light gray work well to create a harmonious balance. Metallic accents like gold or brass can also complement Ultramarine, adding a touch of luxury. It is suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, or studies where a sense of calm and sophistication is desired.