Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#150BA9)
The hexadecimal color code #150BA9 represents a deep, saturated shade of blue known as Ultramarine. It is composed of 8.24% red, 4.31% green, and 66.27% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to R:21, G:11, B:169. The color is frequently associated with depth, stability, and wisdom. Ultramarine has a rich history, originally derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli. Its synthetic equivalent became widely available in the 19th century, making it a popular choice for artists and designers. In color psychology, blue often evokes feelings of calmness and trust, but the intensity of Ultramarine can also convey power and authority. This makes it a versatile color for various applications, from branding to fashion. Its CMYK values are C:88, M:94, Y:0, K:34.
The color #150BA9, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value requires careful consideration of color contrast to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial. When using #150BA9 as a background color, it is imperative to pair it with a very light text color, such as white or a pale yellow, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Avoid using #150BA9 for essential visual elements like links or buttons without clear visual cues, as color blindness can affect how individuals perceive this color. Implementing alternative cues, like underlines or icons, can enhance usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast against dark backgrounds.
A more muted blue that can be used to create a more subtle and sophisticated feel.
A vibrant blue that offers better visibility and can be used to draw attention to important elements.
Applications
Brand Identity
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, can serve as a primary brand color for companies seeking to convey trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence. It's particularly suitable for financial institutions, tech companies, or educational organizations. Use it sparingly for logos, headings, and key accents to create a memorable and impactful brand identity. In web design, ultramarine can create a sophisticated and professional aesthetic when combined with neutral colors like gray or white. The bold, serious tone of this color makes it an excellent choice for institutions that need to convey authority and earn customer trust.
Interior Design
In interior design, #150BA9 can bring a sense of drama and elegance to a space, particularly when used as an accent wall color or in luxurious fabrics like velvet. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver for a touch of opulence. However, due to its intensity, it's best used in moderation, as too much of this color can make a room feel dark and overwhelming. Consider using it in well-lit spaces to maximize its impact, or balance it with lighter, more neutral tones to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. A little bit of ultramarine adds a ton of high-class elegance to any space.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine can be used to create bold and sophisticated looks. A cocktail dress in this color makes a statement, especially when paired with neutral accessories. Ultramarine is often associated with power and confidence, making it a good choice for professional settings. Conversely, more casual styles benefit from ultramarine in denim or cotton fabrics. A splash of this color makes even mundane outfits pop, such as a nice scarf or stylish handbag. Consider a blue dress with a neutral cardigan to look professional and stylish.