Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#140299)
The hex color #140299, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep shade of blue. It is composed of 7.84% red, 0.78% green, and 60% blue. In the RGB color space, it's quite heavily weighted towards the blue channel. This color is often associated with depth, stability, and confidence. Its rich, intense hue makes it suitable for applications where a sense of importance or sophistication is desired. However, due to its darkness, it's crucial to use it judiciously in design to maintain readability and accessibility. The color name, Ultramarine, has historical roots, originating from the pigment derived from lapis lazuli, a rare and valuable stone. It carries a legacy of artistry and high value.
The color #140299, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations. Its low luminance value of approximately 2% means it offers very little contrast against a standard white background. According to WCAG guidelines, this fails even the AAA contrast ratio requirements, making it unsuitable for body text or elements requiring fine detail. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair this color with very light shades, such as white or very pale yellows, to achieve sufficient contrast (at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Using it for purely decorative purposes or in large graphical elements where legibility isn't critical is acceptable. Assistive technologies may struggle to render content using this color if contrast is insufficient, so thorough testing with various tools is necessary. When using #140299, careful consideration is needed to meet accessibility standards and ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, this deep ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and luxurious feel. Consider it for headers, backgrounds of call-to-action buttons (paired with white text for accessibility), or as an accent color in data visualizations to highlight key information. Its richness can draw the user's eye, but be mindful of its low contrast. Avoid using it for extensive blocks of text or critical UI elements where readability is paramount. For instance, a website for a high-end product might use this color sparingly to convey exclusivity and premium quality.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, ultramarine can add a touch of drama and elegance to a space. It works well as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, especially when paired with lighter neutrals like beige or gray. Consider using it for upholstery on furniture pieces, such as sofas or armchairs, to create a focal point. However, due to its intensity, it's best used sparingly. Complement it with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its richness and prevent the room from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Ultramarine can also be used in smaller decorative items like vases, cushions, or artwork to add pops of color.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, #140299 can be used in evening wear or formal attire to create a bold and sophisticated look. A dark blue dress or suit can be paired with silver or gold accessories to create a luxurious and eye-catching outfit. This shade of blue also works well in accessories such as scarves, ties, or handbags to add a pop of color to a more neutral outfit. When using this deep ultramarine, consider the skin tone and ensure that the overall look is balanced with lighter elements to prevent it from being too overwhelming. Because it's a very dark color, it can be used to create a slimming and elegant effect.