Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #0C168C, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich blue hue that evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and tranquility. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with the sea and sky. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, capable of bringing a sense of calmness and serenity to various design applications. Its hexadecimal value provides a precise representation of its spectral composition, making it an invaluable tool for designers, developers, and artists aiming to reproduce the color accurately across different mediums. Ultramarine derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus', meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally imported from overseas, particularly from the regions that are now Afghanistan, where the gemstone lapis lazuli, the source of the pigment, was mined.
The color #0C168C, also known as Ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations, especially in web design. Its dark hue results in low contrast when paired with similarly dark colors, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for accessibility. Therefore, using #0C168C for text requires a very light background to meet contrast ratio requirements. Conversely, as a background color, #0C168C necessitates light-colored text and user interface elements to ensure readability. When using this color, developers should use tools to measure the contrast ratio to comply with accessibility standards, ensuring content is perceivable for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Careful consideration of color combinations is essential to avoid excluding users and maintaining an inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333399
A lighter shade that provides better contrast against dark text, improving readability for users with visual impairments while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e3a8a
A more vibrant color that can be used as an accent to draw attention to key elements, enhancing the visual appeal of the design.
- #1a237e
For use in a dark color palette as an accessible background color, because it's slightly lighter than #0C168C.
Applications
Web Design and UI
In web design, Ultramarine (#0C168C) can serve as a striking background for headers or banners, creating a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter accent colors like gold or white to ensure readability and visual balance. Consider using it sparingly for interactive elements, as its darkness may affect contrast ratios, potentially impacting accessibility. In user interfaces, Ultramarine can highlight primary navigation or call-to-action buttons. In data visualization, this color is perfectly suited for representing key datasets, as it stands out well against lighter background colors.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine (#0C168C) projects an air of elegance and can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire. As an accent color, it works well in accessories like scarves or ties, adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Its deep hue is perfectly suited for creating striking contrasts when paired with lighter, more neutral tones, allowing it to be used for dresses and skirts, particularly when contrasted with accessories or tops in lighter shades. The color can be used in jewelry such as sapphire gemstones to add a touch of luxury to any design.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine (#0C168C) is best used as an accent to avoid overwhelming a space. Accent walls, decorative pillows, or statement furniture pieces can utilize this hue to add depth and character. It pairs beautifully with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, creating a sophisticated and calming ambiance. Consider using Ultramarine in rooms designed for relaxation, such as bedrooms or reading nooks, to promote a sense of tranquility and focus. As an accent, the color will add depth to the interiour and is perfectly suited to elevate the design.