Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #170E8D, commonly referred to as Ultramarine, is a deep and saturated shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 5.49% green, and 55.3% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is used primarily for printing, it consists of 84% cyan, 90% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45% black. Ultramarine is known for its association with depth, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice in branding and design where these qualities are desired. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment in art. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea', referencing its origin from overseas. Today, the color is synthetically produced, making it more accessible for various applications. It can evoke feelings of calmness and serenity.
The hex color #170E8D, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially regarding text contrast. When using this color for backgrounds, it's crucial to select text colors that provide sufficient contrast to ensure readability. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of yellow or gray are generally good choices. Tools like the WebAIM contrast checker can be invaluable in verifying that the contrast ratio meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, aiming for a minimum ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. It's also important to consider users with color vision deficiencies. Avoid pairing #170E8D with colors that might be difficult for them to distinguish, such as certain shades of blue or purple. Incorporating visual cues besides color, such as underlines or icons, can further improve accessibility. For interactive elements, ensure there's a clear visual indication of focus, such as a contrasting border or background change on hover or selection. Careful attention to these aspects will help create a more inclusive and user-friendly experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
Ultramarine (#170E8D) can be used as a bold accent color in web design, drawing attention to key elements such as headings, buttons, or links. Its deep, saturated hue evokes a sense of sophistication and can add a touch of luxury to a website's overall aesthetic. When used sparingly, it can effectively guide the user's eye and create a visually appealing hierarchy. In UI design, Ultramarine can be used to denote primary actions or important information, reinforcing the user's understanding of the interface. This shade of blue can also create a sense of trust and security, qualities that are particularly valuable in financial or e-commerce applications. It is suitable for backgrounds of hero sections or calls to action buttons.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine (#170E8D) can be incorporated as a statement wall color or in accent pieces such as throw pillows, artwork, or rugs. Its rich, vibrant tone adds depth and visual interest to a room, creating a sense of drama and sophistication. It pairs well with neutral colors such as white, gray, or beige, allowing the Ultramarine to stand out as a focal point. Additionally, it can be combined with metallic accents such as gold or silver to enhance its luxurious feel. This color is suitable for furniture upholstery, decorative lighting fixtures and creating a calming and stylish environment in bedrooms or living rooms.
Fashion Accent and Apparel
In fashion, Ultramarine (#170E8D) can be used in elegant evening wear, adding a touch of sophistication and regality. It also is great for accessories such as scarves or handbags, providing a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. Its vibrant hue is also suited for swimwear, evoking feelings of the sea. It is a versatile color that can be styled with a variety of colors for different looks, but especially nice paired with cream or white for a summery vibe.