Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #160494, is a deep, vivid blue color reminiscent of the pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Historically prized for its intense hue and rarity, Ultramarine has been used in art since the Middle Ages, adorning masterpieces by Renaissance painters and beyond. The color evokes feelings of depth, tranquility, and sophistication. In color psychology, deep blues like Ultramarine are often associated with trust, intelligence, stability, and confidence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aiming to convey professionalism. The digital representation of Ultramarine, #160494, is defined within the sRGB color space, with its red component having a value of 22, green having a value of 4, and blue having a value of 148.

The hex color #160494, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very dark hue results in low contrast when used against a standard white background. This lack of contrast makes it difficult for individuals with low vision or color blindness to discern text or graphical elements displayed in this color. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair #160494 with very light colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays. Alternatively, consider using a higher contrast color palette altogether. Tools such as contrast checkers can help evaluate the contrast ratio and ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines like WCAG. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey information, as colorblind users may miss the intended message. Provide alternative cues such as text labels or icons to ensure information is accessible to everyone. When using Ultramarine, prioritize careful color selection and provide sufficient contrast to accommodate users with diverse visual abilities.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, Ultramarine (#160494) can be used to create a sophisticated and luxurious feel, often employed for website headers, footers, and accent elements. The deep blue evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence. However, due to its low contrast, it should be paired with light-colored text or elements to maintain readability and accessibility. It's also suitable for data visualizations, where it can represent a specific category or range of values. Use it sparingly to highlight key information and avoid overwhelming the user with too much dark blue.

• Fashion

  In fashion, Ultramarine (#160494) can be used as a statement color for evening wear or formal attire, exuding elegance and confidence. It can also be incorporated into accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry to add a touch of sophistication to an outfit. As a bold color choice, it pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, or white, or can be contrasted with brighter colors for a more dramatic effect. It's also suitable for corporate branding, where it can convey professionalism and reliability. Due to its dark nature, it is better suited for colder seasons such as winter and autumn. Consider its effect in different lighting conditions.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ultramarine (#160494) can be used as an accent color to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It works well for painting accent walls or incorporating into decorative elements such as cushions, curtains, or artwork. When used sparingly, it can add a touch of luxury and drama to a room. It's best suited for rooms with plenty of natural light to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Ultramarine can also be paired with metallic accents such as gold or silver for a more opulent look, or with natural materials like wood or stone for a more grounded and organic feel. In children's rooms it may give a too dark impression.

Complementary color

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