Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #111387, is a deep and intense shade of blue, reminiscent of the pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Historically, ultramarine was highly prized and expensive, making it a color associated with royalty and prestige. In modern color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, often evoking feelings of calmness, serenity, and sophistication. It resides in the blue-violet spectrum and carries a sense of depth and mystery. The color's unique composition lends it a certain gravitas, making it suitable for various applications where a touch of elegance and formality is desired. It is a popular choice for branding and design where trust and stability are valued.
The color #111387, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for text and user interface elements. Its dark hue results in very low contrast against common background colors like white. This low contrast can make it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text or distinguish interactive elements, leading to a poor user experience. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair Ultramarine with very light colors that provide a high contrast ratio, ideally meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA or AAA standards. Tools for checking color contrast ratios can help designers and developers verify that their color choices are accessible. Consider alternative, lighter shades if contrast cannot be sufficiently improved.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Ultramarine (#111387) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a sense of depth and professionalism. When used sparingly, it adds a touch of sophistication. Ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements. It is best suited for sites with a professional theme, or a serious, subdued style. Ultramarine evokes feelings of trust and professionalism. Use it with a light accent to help important elements of a website or application to stand out.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms. Complement it with lighter shades of blue, gray, or white to create a balanced and calming atmosphere. The color can also be incorporated through accessories like cushions, throws, and artwork. Ultramarine is a very dark color, so it works best in rooms that have plenty of natural light. The room should be well lit to avoid a depressing environment.
Fashion and Makeup
Ultramarine adds a dramatic flair in fashion when used in evening wear or formal attire. It's often paired with metallic accessories or contrasting colors to enhance its richness. In makeup, ultramarine eyeshadow or eyeliner creates a bold and captivating look, especially for those with warmer skin tones. When using ultramarine in fashion, use it as an accent color. For example, an ultramarine scarf with a light beige jacket can improve the look and bring style to the overall image.