Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#0B1991)
The hexadecimal color code #0B1991, commonly known as Ultramarine, represents a deep shade of blue. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it consists of 4.31% red, 9.8% green, and 56.86% blue. This composition explains its prominent blue appearance. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) color model, it is composed of 92% cyan, 83% magenta, 0% yellow, and 43% black. This suggests that the color is very cyan and magenta heavy with black ink used to darken the blue. Ultramarine historically comes from the pigment derived from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone, which explains why the synthetic pigment, and the related colors, have the name Ultramarine (literally 'beyond the sea', because it was imported into Europe from Asia). This deep, rich hue is associated with depth, stability, and professionalism.
The color #0B1991, a deep ultramarine, presents specific accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low lightness value (perceived brightness) means it requires careful pairing with lighter colors to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, text and interactive elements should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against their background to be considered accessible to people with low vision or color blindness. When using #0B1991 for text, a light color like #FFFFFF (white) or a very light gray is almost mandatory to meet accessibility standards. For larger text or user interface components, a slightly lower contrast ratio of 3:1 is acceptable. However, it's still crucial to check the contrast using an online tool to verify compliance. Using this color for backgrounds requires very light text or interactive elements. Avoid using it with mid-tone colors as the contrast will likely be insufficient, making content difficult to read for many users. Designers should prioritize accessibility by choosing appropriate color combinations and testing their designs with assistive technology to ensure usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Ultramarine, like #0B1991, is often used in website headers and footers to establish a sense of professionalism and trust. Its deep tone conveys stability, making it suitable for financial institutions or corporate websites. When used sparingly as an accent color for buttons and links, it draws attention without overwhelming the user. The color's darkness helps to create visually appealing and engaging user experiences, especially when paired with lighter shades of blue or contrasting colors like yellow or white. It would be used for calls to action, ensuring they stand out. It contributes to an overall polished look and feel of the website.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #0B1991 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to add depth and sophistication. It pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, creating a balanced and calming atmosphere. It can also be used for upholstery, such as sofas or armchairs, adding a touch of elegance to the space. Complementary colors like gold or yellow can be incorporated through accessories like cushions or lamps to create visual interest. Its richness ensures the room does not feel sterile, and fosters a sense of rest.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #0B1991 can be employed in evening wear designs to create a classic and elegant look. It serves as an excellent choice for dresses and suits. It can also be used as a statement color for accessories like handbags and shoes, adding a pop of color to a neutral outfit. The color is versatile and can be paired with various fabrics such as silk or velvet, adding texture and depth to the overall design. Its presence exudes class.