Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

The color #0C0596, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep blue hue located towards the violet end of the color spectrum. It is characterized by its strong saturation and depth, evoking feelings of calmness, stability, and authority. Ultramarine historically derived from the pigment extracted from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. Because of its origin, it was an expensive pigment, primarily for important paintings and commissions. In modern color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with trust, intelligence, and loyalty. Its hexadecimal code, #0C0596, indicates a very low red and green component, with a dominant blue component, resulting in its distinctive shade. This color is frequently used in branding, web design, and fashion to convey a sense of sophistication and reliability. Its versatility allows it to be paired with a wide range of colors, from neutrals to contrasting warm tones, depending on the desired effect.

The color #0C0596, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Its low luminance value (very dark) necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, using #0C0596 for text requires pairing it with a very light color, such as white or a very pale yellow, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using this color as a background, similarly light-colored text is essential. Avoid using #0C0596 with mid-tone colors, as the resulting contrast will likely be insufficient. In graphical elements, provide alternative cues besides color, such as text labels or patterns, to convey information. Thorough testing with accessibility evaluation tools and, ideally, with users with disabilities is recommended to confirm compliance and optimal user experience.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, ultramarine can be utilized for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and authoritative feel. It's particularly effective for websites in the technology, finance, or education sectors where trust and stability are important. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter shades for text and interactive elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Avoid using it as the primary background color for large blocks of text. As an accent color, ultramarine can highlight key call-to-action buttons or important information panels. Use sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user.

• Fashion Design

  Ultramarine adds a touch of depth and drama to fashion design, making it suitable for evening wear or statement pieces. It can be paired with metallics like silver or gold for a luxurious effect, or with contrasting colors like yellow or orange for a more playful and modern look. When using it in clothing, consider the fabric texture, as ultramarine can appear differently on matte and shiny materials. It’s suitable for creating a focal point. Accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry in ultramarine can also add a pop of color to a neutral outfit.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, this color works well as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms, adding a pop of color to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. When incorporated in wall art, it can provide a strong contrast against neutral backgrounds. It can also be used for upholstery, throw pillows, or rugs to inject depth and character into a room. Pairing it with lighter shades like cream or white can create a sense of balance and prevent the space from feeling too dark. Consider the lighting in the room, as ultramarine can appear darker in poorly lit spaces.

Complementary color

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