Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #0C0398, known as Ultramarine, is a deep and rich shade of blue. It's located in the blue-violet portion of the color spectrum. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 4.71% red, 1.18% green, and 59.61% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is commonly used for printing, it consists of 92.11% cyan, 98.03% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40.39% black. Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and trustworthiness. Its intense pigmentation makes it a popular choice in various artistic and design applications, ranging from digital interfaces to traditional paintings. The color name "Ultramarine" originates from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," as it was initially derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, imported from faraway lands.
The hex color #0C0398, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, the minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1, and for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), it's 3:1. Given the darkness of Ultramarine, it will generally require a very light background to meet these standards. Using online contrast checkers is essential to verify compliance. Also, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or underlines, in addition to color, to ensure inclusivity for users with visual impairments or color blindness. Careful consideration of these factors will help create a more accessible and user-friendly experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still offers a rich, deep color but provides better contrast against white backgrounds.
A more vibrant and brighter blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
This color is a lighter tint of blue and creates a vintage, calm vibe.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Ultramarine (#0C0398) can be effectively employed in website headers and footers to establish a sense of sophistication and professionalism. It works exceptionally well when paired with clean, minimalist designs featuring ample white space. The deep blue hue can evoke feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for businesses in the finance, technology, or education sectors. Furthermore, consider using it for call-to-action buttons to draw attention and encourage user engagement. To maintain visual balance, use this color sparingly and strategically, combining it with complementary or analogous colors from the color wheel.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine can be used in statement pieces or as an accent color to elevate an outfit. A solid Ultramarine dress or blazer can exude confidence and style. When used as an accent, consider incorporating it into accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes. This deep blue works harmoniously with neutral colors like gray, black, and white, as well as brighter hues like yellow or orange. It's a versatile color that can be adapted to various fashion styles, from classic to contemporary, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Branding and Logo Design
Ultramarine is suitable to use in branding and logo design to represent trust, security, and reliability. Its deep and rich hue communicates stability and expertise. It is well-suited for businesses in the financial, technology, and healthcare industries. When designing a logo, combine it with simple and clean typography to maintain professionalism. Also, ensure that the color is consistently applied across all branding materials to create a strong brand identity.