Ultramarine
General Information
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #140395, is a deep and rich shade of blue. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the rare and expensive mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment, particularly in Renaissance art. Today, synthetic ultramarine is readily available, offering the same vibrant hue without the exorbitant cost. It is characterized by its strong saturation and slight reddish undertone, which sets it apart from other blues. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, sophistication, and depth. Its unique chromatic properties make it versatile for both digital and physical applications.
The color #140395, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance contrast against both white and light backgrounds makes text illegible for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure inclusivity, it's crucial to use this color sparingly, primarily for decorative elements rather than essential information. When used for text or interactive elements, it must be paired with a very light color (e.g., #FFFFFF) to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG guidelines (minimum 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Careful consideration is needed to avoid excluding users who rely on sufficient contrast for readability and navigation. Employing contrast checking tools is essential to validate the accessibility of color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color while maintaining good readability.
- #333333
A dark, neutral gray that works well as a background color when you need sufficient contrast.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #140395 can be used for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and professional look. This color can be applied as a background to highlight specific sections of your web application. Given its darkness, ensure that text placed on this background is of a contrasting color, like white or yellow, to maintain optimal readability and accessibility. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or critical interactive elements due to its low contrast against light backgrounds.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, #140395 can be used as an accent color in clothing designs, such as in patterns or accessories like scarves or handbags. This deep blue shade brings a sense of sophistication and elegance to the wardrobe. It can also serve as a base color for evening wear or formal attire, especially when paired with metallic or lighter complementary shades. Its versatility allows it to be incorporated in both modern and classic designs.
Interior Design
Ultramarine, with its calming yet sophisticated nature, is an excellent choice for creating a serene and stylish living space. This deep blue is perfect for accent walls, providing a focal point that adds depth and character to a room. Complement it with neutral furniture and metallic accents for a luxurious feel, or pair it with lighter blues and whites for a coastal-inspired aesthetic. Consider incorporating ultramarine in textiles like cushions, curtains, or rugs to tie the room together and create a cohesive design.