Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#120A8E)
The hex color #120A8E, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is created by combining red, green, and blue light at specific intensities. In the RGB color model, it consists of 7.06% red, 3.92% green, and 55.69% blue. Ultramarine's hex code is derived from the hexadecimal representation of these RGB values. The color evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, and confidence, often associated with corporate branding and professional environments. It can also be used to create a sense of calm and serenity, making it popular in designs related to relaxation and meditation. Historically, Ultramarine pigment was derived from the rare and expensive mineral lapis lazuli.
The color #120A8E, also known as Ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its dark hue provides insufficient contrast against a white background, potentially causing readability issues for users, especially those with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine falls short of these recommendations when paired with white. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter text color like white or a very light grey or pairing Ultramarine with a lighter background color. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Ensure interactive elements using Ultramarine, such as buttons or links, have clearly defined focus states to aid keyboard navigation.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #4682b4
A desaturated blue that is less intense and can be easier on the eyes, making it suitable for large areas of color.
- #000080
A darker blue that maintains a rich tone while providing sufficient contrast for text and interactive elements, ensuring accessibility.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Ultramarine, with its rich and captivating hue, lends itself beautifully to website headers and footers. Its depth can create a sense of sophistication and professionalism. Using it in headers and footers provides a strong visual anchor, guiding the user's eye and enhancing the overall aesthetic. Consider pairing it with complementary or contrasting colors for text and interactive elements to ensure readability and engagement. Additionally, the color can be used to highlight key sections or calls to action, drawing attention to important information.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine can be a statement color for evening wear or sophisticated casual outfits. A silk blouse or a tailored dress in this hue exudes elegance and confidence. The color can be complemented with neutral accessories like silver or gold jewelry, or paired with contrasting colors such as mustard yellow or crimson for a bolder look. As an accent, Ultramarine can appear in patterns or embellishments, adding a touch of luxury to more subdued garments. Its versatile nature ensures it remains a timeless choice in various fashion applications.
Interior Design Accent Color
Ultramarine can be used as an accent color in interior design, bringing a touch of sophistication and depth to a room. It works well in cushions, artwork, or as a feature wall. It can be paired with neutral tones like grey or beige to create a calming yet elegant space, or combined with brighter colors like coral or yellow for a more vibrant and energetic feel. The color’s intensity makes it best used in moderation to avoid overwhelming the space, allowing it to serve as a focal point that enhances the overall aesthetic.