Ultramarine

About Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #150395, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine pigment was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it highly valued and reserved for important artistic works, particularly in religious paintings to depict the robes of the Virgin Mary. Today, synthetic Ultramarine is widely available, offering the same vibrant color at a fraction of the cost. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and authority. Its rich hue makes it a popular choice in various applications, from graphic design to fashion, where it can evoke a sense of sophistication and elegance. Its dark nature also means that careful consideration of contrast is needed when using it in designs to maintain accessibility.

The hex color #150395, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, the contrast ratio is very low, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. Similarly, using it as a background color with white text poses the same problem. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of yellow, orange, or even brighter greens for text on an Ultramarine background, or pairing it with a much lighter tint of itself for backgrounds. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combinations meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, ensuring a more inclusive design. Proper use of ARIA labels and semantic HTML can further aid accessibility for screen reader users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Design

  Ultramarine (#150395) can be effectively used in website design to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel, particularly for financial institutions or tech companies. The deep blue evokes a sense of stability and professionalism. It's important to balance this color with lighter tones for readability and usability. Using it sparingly as an accent color can draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the user interface. Consider using it for headers, buttons, or call-to-action elements, paired with a clean, minimalist design to maximize its impact.

• Fashion Design

  In fashion, Ultramarine is a bold and elegant choice for evening wear or statement pieces. Its richness and depth create a sense of luxury and sophistication. It can be used as a base color for dresses, suits, or outerwear, and paired with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its regal quality. Accessorizing with complementary colors like yellows or oranges can create a striking contrast, while neutral tones like grey or beige can provide a more subdued and classic look. Ultramarine is a versatile color that can be adapted to various styles and occasions.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a dramatic and calming atmosphere in rooms such as bedrooms or studies. As an accent wall, it adds depth and character to a space, while lighter blues can complement it for a balanced feel. Use gold or brass elements to enhance the luxurious feel. Additionally, using plants as decor, specifically with dark green tones, will add a great contrast that complement the design. If the user is not comfortable with such a dark color, using it in smaller decorative elements, like pillows and vases, will bring color without making the space feel too dark.

Complementary color

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