Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #120aaa, known as Ultramarine, is a deep, vibrant shade of blue. It is characterized by its strong saturation and moderate lightness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 7.1% red, 0% green, and 66.7% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 89% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 33% black. Ultramarine is often associated with feelings of depth, stability, and confidence. It has been historically prized as a pigment, derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli. Due to its historical significance and striking appearance, ultramarine evokes a sense of richness and sophistication. Its bold nature makes it suitable for applications where a strong, memorable visual impact is desired.
The hex color #120aaa, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web design. Its high saturation and relatively low lightness value mean that sufficient contrast with text is crucial for readability, especially for users 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. When using #120aaa as a background, ensure that the foreground text is a light color like white or a very pale yellow to meet these contrast requirements. Also, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; supplement it with text labels or icons to ensure understanding for colorblind users. Carefully consider the overall color scheme and provide alternatives for users who may have difficulty perceiving the color difference. For interactive elements, ensure a distinct visual change on hover or focus to indicate interactivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still provides a rich, vibrant feel but offers better contrast with darker text.
A more desaturated blue that is easier on the eyes and can be used more liberally without causing visual fatigue.
A dark tone can be used for text or background to provide enough constrast
Applications
Web Development
In web development, #120aaa can be used for headers, buttons, and accents to create a modern and sophisticated feel. Due to its boldness, it's best used sparingly to highlight key elements and guide user attention. It could be applied to call-to-action buttons, navigational elements, or as a background for banners to draw the eye. The ultramarine color also pairs well with neutral tones like whites, grays, and light blues to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing user interface. Additionally, its intensity makes it suitable for data visualization, where distinct colors are needed to differentiate categories or data points effectively.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, ultramarine (#120aaa) serves as a striking and sophisticated choice for statement pieces, evening wear, or bold accessories. A dress or blazer in this hue can exude confidence and elegance. In interior design, ultramarine is often used as an accent color to add depth and visual interest to a space. A single wall painted in this shade, or used in decorative items like throw pillows, vases, and artwork, can create a focal point and elevate the overall aesthetic. It complements both modern and traditional styles and can be paired with metallic accents or natural textures for added sophistication.
Beauty and Graphic Design
Ultramarine can be used in beauty to add a splash of color to your look. It's used as eye shadow for a bold look or in nail design for a modern, chic detail. The bold color will attract attention. Ultramarine can be implemented in graphic design for logos or to create flyers to stand out.