Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #160596, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the rare and precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art. This color is characterized by its rich, saturated hue, which evokes feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #160596 is composed of 8.63% red, 1.96% green, and 58.82% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.85, 0.97, 0.00, and 0.41. This color is often associated with royalty, intelligence, and stability. Due to its depth, Ultramarine is often used in various fields to give a feeling of trust and credibility.
The color #160596, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means it offers very little contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and interface elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, the minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1 and for large text is 3:1. This color fails to meet these requirements when paired with standard white (#FFFFFF). To improve accessibility, consider using a much lighter color for text or interactive elements. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if color combinations meet accessibility standards. Also avoid using this color for essential visual information without redundant cues, such as labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #160596 can be used as a primary color for a website focused on technology or innovation, conveying a sense of sophistication and reliability. It can also be effectively used in data visualization to represent specific categories or highlight important data points. However, designers should be mindful of its low contrast and ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements, especially for interactive components like buttons and links. This color can be applied to backgrounds or accents, but it is recommended to balance it with lighter colors to prevent visual fatigue and maintain usability.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #160596 can be incorporated into elegant evening wear or formal attire, exuding a sense of luxury and sophistication. It is also suitable for accessories such as handbags or scarves, adding a touch of understated elegance to an outfit. This color pairs well with metallic accents like silver or gold, as well as contrasting colors like white or cream. When designing clothing, consider the fabric's texture and how it interacts with the color to achieve the desired aesthetic effect, ensuring the garment complements the wearer's complexion and style.
Interior Design
For interior design, Ultramarine (#160596) can be used as an accent color in a modern or contemporary setting. Consider using it for throw pillows, artwork, or a feature wall. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white, creating a balanced and sophisticated atmosphere. For a bolder look, complement it with metallic accents like gold or copper. However, because it's a very dark color, use it sparingly to avoid making the room feel too small or enclosed. Natural light will help balance the darkness, and careful lighting selection is key.