Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #140F8F, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and rich shade of blue. It falls within the blue color family and is known for its strong, intense hue. In the RGB color model, #140F8F is composed of 7.84% red, 5.88% green, and 56.08% blue. This combination results in a color that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Ultramarine has a historical significance, originating from the pigment derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. Due to its rarity and cost, it was highly prized, particularly during the Renaissance. Today, synthetic versions allow for wider accessibility and usage in various applications, from digital design to traditional art.
The color #140F8F, a deep shade of Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means that it requires very light text to achieve sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use text colors like white or very light shades of yellow or gray when using #140F8F as a background. Using darker text colors will make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. When using this color for decorative purposes, ensure critical information is not conveyed solely through this color to accommodate users with color blindness. Consider adding alternative cues like text labels or icons for clarity. Also, avoid using it for interactive elements without clear visual affordances.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Ultramarine (#140F8F) can be used to create a sophisticated and modern look. It's best suited for accents, headers, or backgrounds where high contrast text is used. Due to its depth, it can evoke feelings of trust and stability, making it appropriate for financial or corporate websites. In user interfaces, consider using it for primary buttons or navigation bars, ensuring that the text and interactive elements are clearly visible and accessible. It should be used sparingly to prevent overwhelming the user, and combined with lighter neutral colors to create a balanced and visually appealing design.
Fashion Accents
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used as a bold statement color, particularly in evening wear or accessories. It pairs well with metallic accents like silver or gold, creating a luxurious and eye-catching combination. The color works well in velvet or silk fabrics, enhancing its richness and depth. For a more casual look, it can be paired with lighter denim or cotton fabrics. Consider using it as a contrasting color in patterns or prints to add visual interest. Because of its intensity, it's often best used as an accent color rather than the dominant color in an outfit.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can add a touch of elegance and drama to a room. It works well as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point. Pair it with neutral furniture and metallic accents for a sophisticated look. It can also be used in smaller doses in accessories like cushions, throws, or artwork. The color can also be used in home automation control panels and dashboards to show security levels.