Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #1500A8, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.24% red, 0% green, and 65.88% blue. This color is significantly skewed towards the blue end of the spectrum, resulting in its intense and characteristic hue. Ultramarine has a long and storied history, originally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. The name itself means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its origin from stones imported into Europe from distant lands. Historically, it was one of the most expensive pigments used in painting, reserved for important figures and religious artwork, often symbolizing royalty and holiness. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine are widely available, making it accessible for a variety of applications beyond fine art.
The hex color #1500A8, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its extremely low luminance. Its very dark shade of blue provides insufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds commonly used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Ultramarine is unlikely to meet these standards when paired with typical light colors like white or pale yellow. Therefore, when using #1500A8, careful consideration must be given to its contrast ratio against the background. Employing accessibility evaluation tools is crucial to ensure compliance. Furthermore, providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color and offering high-contrast themes for users with visual impairments are essential practices. Avoid using this color for crucial UI elements without appropriate contrast adjustments.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Branding
Ultramarine (#1500A8) can evoke feelings of depth, sophistication, and trust, making it suitable for financial institutions or technology companies. It can be used sparingly in logos or branding materials to add a touch of elegance. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter accent colors to maintain readability and visual balance. In website design, consider using it for headers or background accents rather than extensive blocks of text. Ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements to maintain accessibility standards. Its intensity makes it a good choice for highlighting specific features or calls to action when used judiciously.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color in rooms needing a touch of drama or sophistication. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white to create a balanced and inviting space. Consider using it for statement walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories such as vases or artwork. Due to its dark nature, use it sparingly in smaller rooms to avoid making the space feel cramped. Balance the intensity with ample natural light and lighter-colored elements to create a harmonious and visually appealing environment. Mixing it with metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance its luxurious feel.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire to create a bold and elegant statement. It can be used in dresses, suits, or accessories such as scarves or handbags. When pairing it with other colors, consider using complementary hues like gold or yellow for a striking contrast, or analogous colors like violet or indigo for a more subtle and harmonious look. Ultramarine can also be used as an accent color in casual wear, such as in graphic tees or sneakers. Its rich tone makes it suitable for both warmer and cooler skin tones, making it a versatile choice for various fashion applications. Due to its intensity, it's best used strategically to create visual interest without overwhelming the overall look.