Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #140C8C, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It is a color that evokes feelings of serenity, depth, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8% red, 4.7% green, and 54.9% blue. This particular combination results in a color that is often associated with trust, stability, and intelligence. Ultramarine has a long history, dating back to ancient times when it was derived from the rare and precious mineral lapis lazuli. This made it one of the most expensive and highly valued pigments, often used in religious art and royal commissions. Its historical significance adds to its allure and timeless appeal. Today, Ultramarine is widely used in various fields, from web design to fashion, thanks to its versatility and captivating aesthetic.
The hex color #140C8C, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine, being a deep shade of blue, might not meet these contrast ratios with darker text colors. Therefore, it is crucial to use a color contrast checker to verify that the chosen text color provides adequate contrast. For users with visual impairments, low contrast can make it difficult to distinguish text from the background, leading to a poor user experience. Careful consideration of color pairings is essential when using this color in web design to ensure inclusivity and usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast for text, while still maintaining a sense of sophistication.
- #808080
A neutral gray that works well with a variety of colors and provides a clean, modern look.
- #f0e68c
A vibrant, contrasting color to create visually striking designs that are more accessible. It is a good alternative if you want to keep a high contrast with lighter colors.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be utilized to create a sophisticated and trustworthy ambiance. It works excellently for headers, navigation bars, and backgrounds when paired with contrasting text. However, due to its darkness, it is important to use it judiciously to avoid overwhelming the user. It can also be used to highlight key elements or calls to action, drawing the user's attention to important sections of the page. In UI/UX design, this color might represent secure or premium features, as blue is often associated with trust and reliability. The key is to maintain sufficient contrast and balance to ensure a pleasant and accessible user experience.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can serve as a powerful accent color or a dominant hue for evening wear. Its richness makes it suitable for velvet, silk, and other luxurious fabrics. The color can be paired with metallics such as gold or silver to create a glamorous look, or with neutral tones for a more understated elegance. It can also be used in accessories such as scarves, handbags, and jewelry to add a pop of color to an outfit. Ultramarine is versatile enough to work for both formal and casual wear, depending on how it is styled.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, or studies as an accent wall or for furniture upholstery. When combined with lighter colors such as white, beige, or gray, it can add depth and visual interest to a space without making it feel too dark or overwhelming. Ultramarine can also be used in decorative elements such as cushions, curtains, and artwork to create a cohesive and stylish look. Consider using it in rooms with plenty of natural light to balance the intensity of the color.