Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #160F8C, is a deep blue color with a rich history. The name 'Ultramarine' originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was originally derived from lapis lazuli sourced from Afghanistan. This color is known for its intense and vibrant hue, often associated with royalty, spirituality, and sophistication. In color theory, Ultramarine sits within the blue range of the color spectrum and is considered a cool color. It evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. Due to its intensity, it is often used sparingly or as an accent color to draw attention and create a sense of depth.
The color #160F8C, also known as Ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations, especially for web design. Its dark hue means that sufficient contrast with lighter text or background colors is crucial. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using white text on an Ultramarine background can often achieve this. However, it's vital to test combinations using accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of interactive elements like links; supplement with underlines or other visual cues. Consider users with visual impairments; providing alternative text descriptions for images and ensuring that the color is not the only means of conveying information is essential.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still provides a rich, deep tone, but with slightly improved visibility and contrast, making it a safer choice for text backgrounds.
A less saturated blue that can be used in combination with #160F8C to create depth and visual interest without overwhelming the user.
A vivid royal blue provides a brighter alternative that might be preferable for users seeking high visibility for links and highlights.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine can serve as a striking background color for website headers or call-to-action buttons. It conveys a sense of trust and stability, which is suitable for financial or corporate websites. Its depth can also be used to create a sophisticated feel for luxury brands. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with light, contrasting text (like white or light yellow) to ensure readability. Ultramarine also works well as an accent color to draw attention to key elements on a page, complementing lighter background colors.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as a statement wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold or silver for a luxurious touch. In smaller doses, it can be used in cushions, rugs, or artwork to add pops of color to a neutral space. Because it's a cool color, it can help to create a sense of spaciousness in smaller rooms, especially when combined with light-colored furniture and ample natural light.
Fashion Statement
In fashion, Ultramarine is a bold and elegant color choice for evening gowns, suits, or statement pieces like coats and jackets. It can be paired with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic look, or with complementary colors like orange or yellow for a more vibrant and daring ensemble. Ultramarine accessories, such as scarves, handbags, or shoes, can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit, making it a versatile and timeless color in the world of fashion.