Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1208AC, is a deep blue color reminiscent of the precious pigment derived from lapis lazuli. It resides in the blue-violet region of the color spectrum and evokes feelings of calmness, sophistication, and depth. Historically, Ultramarine was one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments, often reserved for important figures and religious depictions in art. In modern color theory, #1208AC is created by mixing red, green, and blue light at specific intensities, with red at 7.1%, green at 3.1%, and blue at 67.5%. Its spectral reflectance curve shows a strong absorbance of yellow and red wavelengths, allowing the blue wavelengths to dominate and create the characteristic Ultramarine hue. This color is widely used in digital media, graphic design, and various visual applications to convey elegance and sophistication. It is considered a tertiary color.
The color #1208ac, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in low contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text or elements using this color potentially difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To ensure accessibility, it's recommended to pair Ultramarine with very light colors like white (#ffffff) or very light grays as background colors. Using online contrast checkers can help determine if the combination meets accessibility standards. Also, avoid using Ultramarine for essential UI elements where clear visibility is paramount. Consider providing alternative high-contrast themes or allowing users to customize colors for a better experience. Ensure that text using this color has a font size large enough to improve readability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine can be used in website design to create a sense of sophistication and trustworthiness. It's particularly effective in the header and footer sections, as well as for highlighting important call-to-action buttons. When used as a background color for text, ensure the text is a light color, such as white or a very light gray, to maintain readability and accessibility. The color also lends itself well to creating visual hierarchy and guiding the user's eye through the content. It can be used for charts and graphs to enhance data visualization.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can serve as an accent color to add depth and richness to a room. It works well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white. Ultramarine can be incorporated through accessories such as throw pillows, rugs, and artwork. A single piece of furniture in Ultramarine, like an armchair or a side table, can create a focal point in the room. It also complements metallic finishes such as gold, silver, and copper, enhancing the luxurious feel of the space. Consider using it in smaller doses to avoid overwhelming the space.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used for both clothing and accessories. It's a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. An Ultramarine dress can be a statement piece for evening wear, while an Ultramarine scarf or handbag can add a pop of color to a more casual outfit. It pairs well with other colors like black, white, and gray, as well as with bolder colors like red and yellow. Consider using it in formal wear to highlight the eyes or to create a regal effect for a wedding dress or formal suit.