Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #150394, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its high saturation and relatively low lightness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.24% red, 1.18% green, and 58.04% blue. Its hexadecimal representation, #150394, is frequently used in web design and digital graphics. Ultramarine historically derives from the pigment extracted from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized and expensive pigment in the past. Its name literally means "beyond the sea," referring to its origin from overseas. Nowadays, the color is synthetically produced, making it much more accessible and affordable for various applications. In color psychology, Ultramarine is often associated with depth, stability, and wisdom, making it a popular choice for branding and designs that aim to convey these qualities.
The color #150394, a deep Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance of approximately 3% makes it difficult to read text rendered in this color against a standard white background. To meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, especially AA and AAA levels, it's crucial to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This often necessitates pairing #150394 with very light colors, such as shades of white or pale yellow. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient visual cues beyond just color should be provided to aid users with color vision deficiencies. Avoid using it for essential information without strong contrast, and consider providing alternative high-contrast themes for users who require them. Proper accessibility considerations ensure a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #336699
A slightly lighter shade of blue, #336699 offers better readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #003366
For improved contrast, #003366 provides a darker hue that can work well with lighter text.
- #2962ff
A vibrant alternative for digital interfaces. It offers a balance between visual interest and readability.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine (#150394) can be utilized sparingly as an accent color to highlight specific elements, such as calls to action or important notifications. Due to its dark nature, it's best paired with light text or backgrounds to ensure readability and contrast. It can be effective in creating a sense of depth and sophistication, especially in designs aiming for a modern and tech-oriented aesthetic. When used in larger areas, it is important to consider the visual impact and ensure that the overall design remains balanced and user-friendly. Think about using it for headers or sidebars with white text to have a good contrast ratio.
Interior Design Accent Wall
In interior design, Ultramarine (#150394) can be used to create a bold and dramatic statement. It works well as a feature wall color in a living room or bedroom, especially when contrasted with lighter furniture and accessories. It can also be used in smaller doses, such as in decorative pillows, artwork, or area rugs, to add a touch of sophistication and depth to a space. When using Ultramarine, it's important to consider the lighting in the room, as it can appear darker in poorly lit spaces. It can also be combined with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, to create a luxurious feel.
Fashion Apparel
Ultramarine, with its deep and captivating hue, makes a striking statement in fashion. Consider using it for evening gowns or tailored suits to exude sophistication and confidence. Accessorize with silver or diamond jewelry to enhance its luxurious appeal. For a more casual look, incorporate ultramarine in knitwear or denim, pairing it with neutral colors like gray or white to create a balanced ensemble. Whether it's a bold dress or a subtle accessory, ultramarine adds a touch of elegance to any wardrobe.