Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hexadecimal color #160A8E, commonly referred to as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 3.92% green, and 55.69% blue. This color is often associated with royalty, depth, and stability. Ultramarine has a long history, dating back to ancient times when it was derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli. Because of its precious source, it was often used in artworks for the most important figures of paintings. Today, it's synthetically produced and widely used across various industries, from graphic design to fashion. Its rich hue makes it a popular choice for creating a sense of elegance and sophistication in visual designs.
The color #160A8E, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against standard light backgrounds (like white). This can make it difficult for users with visual impairments to read content or discern interactive elements. To ensure accessibility, it's essential to pair Ultramarine with very light colors, such as white or light yellows, to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards (a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid using it for small text or important UI elements if sufficient contrast cannot be guaranteed. Consider providing alternative color schemes or a user-adjustable contrast setting to accommodate users with different visual needs. Using color contrast tools can help evaluate and improve the accessibility of color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e299e
A slightly lighter shade of blue can offer better readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #3b34a8
A more vibrant blue can be used to draw attention to key elements while providing sufficient contrast.
- #080447
A darker shade of blue will create more contrast if you need to use it as text.
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep blue tone, can be effectively used in website headers and navigation bars to create a sense of sophistication and trust. It pairs well with clean, minimalist designs, adding a touch of elegance without overpowering the overall aesthetic. The color is especially suitable for businesses in the finance, technology, or education sectors, where conveying stability and reliability is crucial. Furthermore, it is a nice color to create backgrounds for call-to-action buttons.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color to add depth and drama to a space. Consider using it on a feature wall, upholstered furniture, or decorative accessories. When combined with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white, Ultramarine creates a balanced and harmonious environment. It works particularly well in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices where a sense of calm and focus is desired. Moreover, Ultramarine may give a room a luxurious and stylish touch.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be incorporated into clothing and accessories to create bold and stylish looks. A statement Ultramarine dress or blouse can be paired with neutral-colored pants or skirts for a sophisticated ensemble. For a more casual look, consider using Ultramarine as an accent color in scarves, bags, or shoes. This color is especially flattering on individuals with cool undertones and can add a touch of vibrancy to any outfit. Also for men's wear, Ultramarine is a good choice for sweaters or jackets.