Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #160C8C, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich shade of blue situated towards the violet end of the spectrum. It derives its name from the historical pigment derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.63% red, 4.71% green, and 54.9% blue. This color is often associated with depth, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice for branding and design purposes where these qualities are desired. Ultramarine can evoke feelings of calmness and serenity, making it suitable for environments aiming to create a relaxed atmosphere. Its high blue content also lends itself well to representing intellect and authority.
The hex color #160C8C, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges primarily due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, ideally exceeding the WCAG's AA or AAA contrast ratios. Conversely, as a text color, it requires a very light background. Testing with accessibility tools like the WebAIM contrast checker is crucial to ensure compliance. Avoid using this color for small text or intricate graphics where legibility is paramount. Careful consideration of colorblindness is also essential, as the deep blue may be difficult for individuals with tritanopia or tritanomaly to perceive accurately. Providing alternative visual cues or redundant information is advisable to cater to a broader audience and improve overall accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look, particularly for financial or educational websites. It can serve as a primary color for headings and navigation menus, conveying trust and stability. However, it should be paired with lighter, contrasting colors for text and backgrounds to ensure readability and accessibility. Furthermore, it could be used as a secondary accent color in user interface elements, such as buttons or progress bars, providing a subtle visual highlight without overwhelming the user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be employed to add a touch of elegance and depth to spaces. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a calming and serene atmosphere. When used sparingly, it can bring a sense of luxury, especially when paired with gold or silver accents. Consider using it for upholstery or decorative pillows to introduce a pop of color to neutral-toned furniture. Balance the intensity of Ultramarine with lighter hues to avoid making the room feel too dark or enclosed.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be a striking choice for evening wear or statement pieces. A flowing gown in this color exudes sophistication and confidence. It is also well-suited for accessories like scarves, handbags, or jewelry, adding a vibrant touch to an otherwise understated outfit. For everyday wear, consider incorporating Ultramarine in smaller doses, such as a blouse or a pair of shoes, to inject personality into your style. Pair it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray to create a balanced and polished look.