Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#1112A3)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1112A3, is a deep, saturated blue hue reminiscent of the pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Historically, Ultramarine was highly prized and expensive, making it a color reserved for royalty and religious figures in art. In the RGB color model, #1112A3 is composed of 6.67% red, 7.06% green, and 63.92% blue. Its high blue component gives it its characteristic deep blue appearance. The color is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, trust, and wisdom. In modern usage, Ultramarine is used across various design fields, from web design to fashion, to evoke a sense of sophistication and elegance. However, it's important to note its accessibility considerations due to its relatively low luminance.
The color #1112A3, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text and user interface design. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text or discern important elements. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair Ultramarine with significantly lighter colors to ensure sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14 points and above, bold, or 18 points and above) to comply with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Testing with accessibility evaluation tools and considering user feedback are essential steps to ensure your design is inclusive and provides a positive experience for all users. Additionally, avoid using Ultramarine as the sole indicator for interactive elements; supplement it with other visual cues, such as underlines or icons, to ensure that users who are colorblind can still understand the interface.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements while still providing sufficient contrast when paired with appropriate background colors.
A classic blue that works well for creating a calm and professional look, with better accessibility properties.
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
Ultramarine can be used as an accent color in website designs to highlight key elements or calls to action. Its deep blue hue evokes feelings of trust and security, making it suitable for financial or security-related websites. However, it should be used sparingly due to accessibility concerns and always paired with lighter colors for text and interactive elements. Consider using it for headers, borders, or graphical elements rather than for large blocks of text.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can add a touch of sophistication and depth to a room. It works well as a wall color in smaller spaces or as an accent color in larger rooms. It can be paired with neutral colors like white or gray to create a balanced and calming atmosphere. Ultramarine can also be used in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories to add a pop of color. When using Ultramarine in interior design, it's important to consider the lighting of the room, as it can appear darker in poorly lit spaces.
Fashion Statement Color
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used as a statement color for clothing or accessories. A deep ultramarine dress or blazer can create a bold and confident look. It can be paired with neutral colors like black or white for a classic and elegant style, or with brighter colors like yellow or orange for a more playful and energetic look. Ultramarine accessories, such as scarves or handbags, can add a pop of color to any outfit. Consider the fabric and texture when using Ultramarine in fashion, as it can appear different on different materials.