Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #0E0296, is a deep, intense blue color. It is a shade that evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and tranquility. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment. Today, it is synthetically produced, making it more accessible. In color psychology, dark blues like Ultramarine are associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. It is often used in branding and design to convey stability and reliability. Its rich hue makes it a versatile color for both digital and physical applications.
The color #0E0296, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its dark hue results in a very low contrast ratio against light backgrounds, making text and interface elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To improve accessibility, consider using this color sparingly, primarily for decorative elements or backgrounds. When used for text or interactive elements, pair it with a very light color like white or a pale yellow to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools are available online to check color contrast ratios and ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Avoid using this color for critical information or calls to action without careful consideration of contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
In web design, Ultramarine (#0E0296) can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or footers, providing a sense of depth and richness. However, due to its dark nature, it's essential to pair it with contrasting text colors like white or a very light yellow to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be used sparingly for accent elements, such as borders or highlights, to draw attention without overwhelming the user. Consider its use in data visualizations to represent specific categories or ranges, but always ensure sufficient contrast with other data elements for clarity.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sense of drama and luxury in a room. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, especially when paired with lighter neutral tones like beige or gray. The deep blue can also be incorporated through furniture, such as velvet sofas or upholstered chairs, to add a touch of elegance. Accessorize with gold or brass accents to enhance the richness of the color. However, avoid overusing it in small spaces, as it can make the room feel smaller and darker. Balance it with ample natural light and lighter elements to create a harmonious and inviting space.
Fashion - Evening Wear
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine can be used for elegant evening wear or statement pieces, particularly in fabrics like silk or velvet. The deep, rich color can be paired with metallic accessories like silver or gold for a glamorous look. It can also be incorporated into casual wear as a bold accent color in patterns or prints. When using Ultramarine in fashion, consider the skin tone of the wearer and balance it with complementary colors to create a visually appealing and flattering ensemble. The color works well for outerwear, such as coats or jackets, making a bold statement in cooler seasons.