Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #160296, also known as Ultramarine, is a dark, saturated shade of blue. It's located in the blue-violet part of the color spectrum. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 0.78% green, and 58.82% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 85.39% cyan, 98.66% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41.18% black. This color derives its name from the pigment historically made from lapis lazuli, a rare and expensive stone, giving it an association with royalty and high art. Ultramarine is often associated with depth, intelligence, and stability, and is used to convey feelings of trust and confidence. Its high blue component gives it a calming effect, while its dark saturation adds a sense of seriousness and power.
The color #160296, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 2% means that text rendered in this color against a white background will have extremely poor contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. This color fails to meet even the minimum contrast requirements, making it difficult to read for many users. To improve accessibility, consider using this color sparingly, pairing it with very light colors for text, or using it in larger graphical elements where readability is less critical. Providing alternative high-contrast themes is also advisable.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design for Luxury Brands
Ultramarine, with its rich and profound depth, embodies the essence of the night sky or the abyss of the ocean. In web design, this hue can be employed strategically to evoke feelings of tranquility, mystery, and sophistication. It is particularly suited for backgrounds or accents in websites related to astronomy, oceanography, or luxury brands aiming to project an image of exclusivity and refinement. The color's intensity demands careful consideration; it should be balanced with lighter, complementary hues to avoid overwhelming the user and maintain readability. Used thoughtfully, ultramarine can imbue a website with a sense of depth and elegance, capturing the user's attention and leaving a lasting impression of quality and prestige.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, #160296, a profound ultramarine, serves as a statement of sophistication and timelessness. Imagine a velvet gown in this shade, exuding opulence and elegance, ideal for formal events. As an accent color, it complements neutral palettes such as beige, cream, or gray, adding a touch of richness and depth. For bolder ensembles, it pairs harmoniously with gold or silver accessories, enhancing its regal quality. In menswear, this shade works well for sophisticated blazers or ties, lending an air of understated confidence. The versatility of ultramarine allows it to be incorporated into both classic and contemporary styles, making it a staple in any fashion-conscious wardrobe.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine (#160296) can be used to create a focal point or to add a touch of drama to a space. Consider an accent wall in this color in a living room or bedroom, paired with neutral furniture and light wood accents to balance the intensity. In smaller doses, it can be incorporated through decorative pillows, artwork, or statement furniture pieces. Ultramarine works well in rooms with ample natural light, as it can help to ground the space and create a sense of calm. It pairs well with metallic accents, such as gold or brass, for a luxurious feel, or with natural materials like linen and wool for a more relaxed, bohemian vibe. Be cautious not to overuse this color, as it can overpower a space if not balanced correctly.