Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hexadecimal color #16019A, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue-violet. It is composed of 8.63% red, 0.39% green, and 60.39% blue. In the RGB color space, it lies far towards the blue end of the spectrum, contributing to its rich and saturated appearance. Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as sophistication, depth, and creativity. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued and expensive color. This historical context adds to its connotations of luxury and exclusivity. In modern usage, ultramarine is widely employed in various fields, including art, design, and web development, to evoke a sense of elegance and visual impact.
The color #16019A, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low lightness value results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text illegible for users with visual impairments. 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. This color is unlikely to meet these ratios when paired with standard light backgrounds. Using this color as a background necessitates very light text colors such as #FFFFFF to achieve sufficient contrast. Even then, careful evaluation and testing with accessibility tools are crucial to ensure readability for all users, including those with low vision or color deficiencies. Developers should also consider providing alternative color themes to enhance usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3329a6
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2d03d1
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements while offering adequate contrast.
- #4834d4
A softer, muted blue that provides a calming effect and is easier on the eyes.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It's suitable for headers, navigation bars, and accent elements on websites related to technology, finance, or education. However, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user and to maintain good readability. Consider pairing it with neutral colors like white, light gray, or beige to balance its intensity. Ultramarine can also be effective for interactive elements like buttons and links, as long as the contrast is carefully managed.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine adds a touch of elegance and drama. It can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decor items. It works well in spaces where you want to create a sense of tranquility and focus, such as bedrooms, studies, or meditation rooms. Ultramarine pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold or silver, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. Consider using it in combination with lighter blues or greens to create a calming and harmonious atmosphere.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine can make a bold statement. It's a versatile color that can be incorporated into clothing, accessories, or footwear. It's suitable for both formal and casual occasions, depending on how it's styled. Ultramarine looks particularly striking when paired with contrasting colors like yellow, orange, or red. It can also be used as a base color for creating monochromatic outfits, adding depth and interest with different textures and shades of blue.