Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0D178E, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is known for its intense and captivating appearance. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art. Today, synthetic versions offer the same vibrant hue at a more accessible cost. In color psychology, Ultramarine is associated with depth, stability, and wisdom. It is often used to evoke feelings of trust and confidence, making it a popular choice for branding and design in various industries. Its high saturation and dark tone make it suitable for creating focal points and adding a touch of elegance.
The color #0D178E, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio with lighter text colors like white or yellow, potentially making the content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #0D178E with a much lighter color to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. If using it for interactive elements like buttons, provide clear visual cues for focus states. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of functionality, as colorblind users might miss the information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine (#0D178E) can serve as a striking accent color, particularly for headers, navigation bars, or call-to-action buttons. Its depth evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for financial or corporate websites. However, due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly as a background color to avoid overwhelming users. Instead, consider pairing it with lighter, complementary colors to create a balanced visual hierarchy and ensure readability. For example, use it as a background for white or light gray text to create a sophisticated and professional look.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine (#0D178E) is often used to create elegant and sophisticated pieces. It can be found in evening gowns, suits, and accessories like scarves and handbags. This color exudes confidence and sophistication, making it a popular choice for formal wear. When paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, it can create a luxurious and eye-catching effect. Ultramarine is also suitable for casual wear, such as denim jackets or sweaters, adding a touch of refinement to everyday outfits. Its versatility makes it a staple in many wardrobes.
Interior Design
Ultramarine is a captivating color choice for interior design, capable of transforming spaces into serene sanctuaries or accentuating features with sophistication. In living rooms or bedrooms, an ultramarine accent wall can evoke feelings of calmness and depth, especially when complemented by lighter furniture and warm lighting. Accessorize with throw pillows and art featuring lighter shades of blue, white, or cream to create a balanced palette. For smaller touches, ultramarine can be integrated through decorative items like vases, lamps, or rugs, adding subtle pops of color without overwhelming the space.