Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#11009B)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #11009B, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It is historically derived from the pigment made by grinding lapis lazuli, a rare and valuable stone. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting the pigment's origin as it was imported into Europe from overseas. In the RGB color model, #11009B is composed of 6.67% red, 0% green, and 61.18% blue. It is a saturated color with a strong blue component, giving it a cool and calming feel. Ultramarine is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. Due to its depth and richness, it has been used extensively in art, design, and fashion throughout history. Understanding its properties and cultural significance helps to effectively utilize it in modern applications.
The color #11009B, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against light backgrounds, potentially making text and interactive elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine often falls short of these requirements when paired with common background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, consider using Ultramarine sparingly, especially for crucial information. When using it for text or interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast by pairing it with very light colors, such as white or light yellow. Also, provide alternative visual cues for users who may have difficulty distinguishing the color, such as labels, icons, or patterns.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue, #3366FF, offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #4682b4
A more desaturated blue, #4682B4 (Steel Blue), provides a softer and more accessible visual experience.
- #007bff
For interactive elements, #007BFF (a brighter blue) is a widely used color that often meets accessibility standards for links and buttons.
Applications
Website Headers/Footers
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep blue tone, can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a sense of sophistication and professionalism. It works particularly well for websites in the technology, finance, or education sectors. To enhance the user experience, complement it with lighter shades of blue or neutral colors for the main content area. Ensure that text placed on Ultramarine backgrounds meets accessibility standards by using a high-contrast text color like white or a very light gray.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine can be utilized in evening wear or formal attire to exude elegance and mystery. It's a popular choice for gowns, suits, and accessories that aim to make a bold statement. Designers often pair Ultramarine with metallic accents like gold or silver to create a luxurious feel. When using Ultramarine in clothing designs, consider the fabric's texture and how it interacts with light to enhance the color's depth.
Interior Design Accent
Ultramarine can serve as a striking accent color in interior design. It can be used on a single wall to create a focal point in a room or in decorative elements like cushions, vases, or artwork. To balance its intensity, pair it with neutral wall colors like beige, cream, or light gray. Incorporating natural light and reflective surfaces can also help to brighten up the space and showcase the color's beauty. Ultramarine is especially suited for rooms where a sense of calm and sophistication is desired, such as bedrooms, studies or living rooms.