Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #150A8E, known as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated blue hue that exudes sophistication and elegance. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with qualities such as trust, stability, and intelligence. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.24% red, 3.92% green, and 55.69% blue. This specific combination gives it a rich, almost royal, appearance. Ultramarine has historical significance, as it was originally derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art for centuries. Its name comes from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," as the pigment was imported to Europe from Asia. Today, synthetic versions are widely available, making it more accessible for various applications.
The hex color #150A8E, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning text and interactive elements. Due to its dark nature, using it as a background color requires careful consideration of foreground text colors. A light color, such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very light yellow (#FFFFE0), is essential to ensure 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 meet AA compliance. For optimal accessibility and AAA compliance, aim for a contrast ratio of 7:1. When using #150A8E for buttons or links, providing clear visual cues such as hover effects, underlines, or increased font weight can further enhance usability. Ensure that the focus state is also clearly visible to aid keyboard navigation for users with disabilities. Testing with accessibility evaluation tools is highly recommended to validate contrast and ensure compliance with accessibility standards, providing an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white text, making it more accessible for a wider range of users.
- #6495ed
A softer blue that can be used as a background color without causing eye strain, suitable for large surfaces.
- #000000
Using black text on a white background makes this color combination one of the most accessible ones.
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine (#150A8E) can be used in website headers and navigation bars to create a sophisticated and trustworthy aesthetic. The deep blue color conveys a sense of stability and professionalism, making it suitable for businesses in finance, technology, or consulting. By pairing it with a complementary color like gold or a lighter shade of blue, designers can create visually appealing interfaces that enhance user experience. Careful attention to contrast ratios, especially for text elements, is crucial to ensure accessibility and readability, enabling all users to navigate the site effectively.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine (#150A8E) can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire to evoke a sense of elegance and sophistication. A deep blue dress or suit can be accessorized with silver or diamond jewelry to enhance its luxurious appeal. This color also works well in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes, adding a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. The richness of ultramarine makes it a versatile choice for creating impactful and memorable fashion statements, projecting confidence and style.
Interior Design
Ultramarine (#150A8E) can be applied to create an accent wall in a bedroom or living room, providing a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. The deep blue color can be complemented with neutral tones such as gray, white, or beige for furniture and decor. Using lighter-colored textiles and accessories can balance the intensity of the ultramarine, creating a harmonious and inviting space. This color also works well in studies or libraries, promoting focus and tranquility.