Ultramarine

About Ultramarine (#1606AE)

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1606AE, is a deep, vibrant blue hue. Historically, Ultramarine pigment was derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued and expensive color, often reserved for important figures and religious art. The name "Ultramarine" literally means "beyond the sea," referring to its origin from overseas. In modern color theory, Ultramarine is considered a primary color, playing a crucial role in color mixing and design. Its rich tone evokes feelings of depth, tranquility, and sophistication. In digital applications, Ultramarine can be used to create a sense of importance or to draw attention to specific elements. However, due to its darkness, careful consideration should be given to contrast ratios to ensure readability and accessibility.

The color #1606AE, Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based contexts. Its dark hue necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Given Ultramarine's darkness, lighter colors like white, yellow, or light shades of green are crucial for creating accessible text. Insufficient contrast can render content illegible for individuals with low vision or color blindness. In UI design, using Ultramarine as a primary background color requires careful pairing with accessible foreground elements and interactive components. Furthermore, avoid using Ultramarine as the sole indicator for important information or actions, as colorblind users might miss these cues. Supplement color coding with text labels, icons, or other visual cues to ensure inclusivity. Regular accessibility audits and user testing with diverse user groups can help identify and address potential accessibility issues related to the use of Ultramarine.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Design

  Ultramarine is often used in website headers and navigation bars to create a sense of sophistication and trust. Its deep, rich tone can establish a professional brand identity. When using it, designers typically pair it with lighter accent colors to ensure readability and visual balance. It works well for financial institutions or educational platforms looking to convey stability and authority. Consider using it for buttons or calls to action, provided the text contrast is sufficient to meet accessibility standards. This color can also be effectively used in data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, to represent key information, ensuring that colorblind-friendly palettes are also incorporated.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ultramarine can create a focal point in a room. An Ultramarine accent wall, combined with neutral furniture and bright accessories, provides an elegant and visually interesting space. It can be incorporated through textiles, such as throw pillows or rugs, to add depth and richness. The use of Ultramarine should be balanced with lighter shades to prevent the room from feeling too dark or overwhelming. It’s particularly effective in spaces with ample natural light, where its vibrancy can be fully appreciated. Consider it for rooms intended for relaxation and contemplation, such as bedrooms or reading nooks.

• Fashion Design

  Ultramarine is frequently used in fashion design for evening wear and formal attire, conveying a sense of luxury and sophistication. This color makes a statement whether used in fabrics like velvet or silk, or in accessories. It pairs well with metallic tones such as gold or silver, enhancing the elegant aesthetic. Ultramarine can also be found in more casual wear, like denim or knitwear, adding a touch of richness to everyday styles. It's versatile enough to be used as a statement color or as a complement to other colors.

Complementary color

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