Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hexadecimal color #170299, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, and intelligence. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.02% red, 0.78% green, and 60% blue. The color is heavily weighted towards the blue spectrum, resulting in its characteristic deep blue hue. Ultramarine has a relatively low saturation, indicating that it is not a very vibrant color. Its lightness value is also low, contributing to its dark appearance. This color has a rich history, with the pigment being derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, with its name literally meaning "beyond the sea", reflecting its origin from overseas. Ultramarine is commonly used in design contexts where a sense of authority, stability, or sophistication is desired.
The hex color #170299, also known as Ultramarine, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Due to its dark nature, #170299 requires a light background to meet these standards. Using a color contrast checker is highly advisable to verify compliance. Furthermore, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided. Providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, ensures that users with color vision deficiencies can still understand and interact with the content effectively. Consideration should also be given to users with low vision, who may benefit from adjustable text sizes and high-contrast themes.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep hue, can serve as a striking accent color in web design. Use it sparingly for headings, buttons, or other key elements to draw the user's eye. It pairs well with lighter, neutral colors like white, light gray, or pale yellow to create a balanced and visually appealing interface. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient color contrast between text and background when using Ultramarine, as its darkness can pose accessibility challenges. Consider using a lighter shade of blue or a complementary color for text to improve readability. In interactive elements such as buttons, use hover effects to provide clear visual feedback to the user. Ultramarine conveys a sense of trust, stability, and sophistication.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. As a wall color, it is best suited for accent walls or smaller rooms, as it can be overwhelming in large spaces. Pair it with neutral furniture and light-colored accessories to balance the intensity of the blue. Ultramarine also works well as an accent color in furniture, such as sofas, chairs, or cushions. It can be combined with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, to create a luxurious feel. This color is especially fitting for bedrooms, studies, or reading nooks, as it promotes relaxation and focus. Complementary colors like yellow or orange can be used in small doses to add vibrancy and energy to the space.
Fashion Applications
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine can be used in garments for outfits, accessories, or patterns. A dress in ultramarine makes it a great stand-out piece in a wardrobe. Additionally, ultramarine accessories like hats, gloves, or handbags can add a pop of color to a more subdued outfit. For patterns, it can be combined with other shades of blue or contrasting colors to create visual interest. Be aware that this color should be used to complement a fashion piece by considering the rest of the outfit.