Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #15118A, is a deep, vivid blue with historical significance rooted in the pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Its name, literally meaning "beyond the sea," reflects its origin, as lapis lazuli was historically imported from Central Asia. This color is characterized by its strong blue hue with slight violet undertones, contributing to its richness and depth. In color theory, Ultramarine is associated with feelings of tranquility, stability, and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various applications, from art and design to branding and fashion. Understanding its properties and associations allows for effective use in visual communication.
The color #15118A, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning text and interactive elements. With a low luminance value, it can be difficult to read text rendered in this color against a white or light background. Therefore, when using #15118A for text, it is crucial to pair it with a very light color such as white or a pale yellow to ensure sufficient contrast, ideally exceeding the WCAG recommended contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Similarly, when using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure that the color contrast is sufficient to provide clear affordance to users. Also, consider providing additional visual cues, such as underlines or borders, to enhance usability for users with visual impairments. Testing the design with accessibility evaluation tools is recommended to guarantee compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better readability and contrast, suitable for text and backgrounds.
A softer, more muted blue that works well in user interfaces without being too overpowering.
A vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
Applications
Web Design Branding
In web design, Ultramarine (#15118A) can be used as a primary brand color for companies wishing to convey trust, stability, and intelligence. It's particularly suitable for financial institutions, educational platforms, and tech companies. This color can be implemented in website headers, footers, and sidebars to establish a strong brand presence. Furthermore, consider using it for call-to-action buttons to guide user interaction, ensuring sufficient contrast with the background for accessibility. However, use it sparingly as a background color for large text blocks because it can strain the eyes. Instead, utilize it for highlights or accents to maintain visual appeal and readability.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine (#15118A) can be used to create sophisticated and elegant looks, either as a standalone statement color or combined with neutral tones. It works well for evening wear, formal attire, and accessories, providing a touch of depth and richness. Consider using it in velvet or silk fabrics to enhance its luxurious appeal. When used as an accent color in casual wear, such as in printed patterns or embellishments, it can elevate the overall aesthetic, making it more refined and visually appealing. Also, it is often associated with royalty and power, so use it to convey these emotions.
Interior Design Accents
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, finds a place in interior design as an accent color to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be applied as a wall color in studies, bedrooms, or libraries, contributing to a tranquil environment. Consider using it in moderation as it can darken a space if overused. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, creating a balanced and inviting ambiance. Furthermore, Ultramarine can be incorporated into furniture, such as sofas, chairs, or decorative pieces like vases or artwork, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to interior spaces.