Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#180096)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #180096, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally imported from overseas, specifically from the mineral lapis lazuli found in Afghanistan. In the past, it was one of the most expensive pigments, highly prized by Renaissance artists. Chemically, it is a complex sodium aluminosilicate with sulfur. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering a more affordable alternative to the natural pigment. This color evokes feelings of depth, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice for branding and design where reliability is paramount. It's a color often associated with knowledge, power and integrity.
The color #180096, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a text color against a white or light background. Its low luminance can make it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to read comfortably. To ensure accessibility, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). When using #180096 for text, consider pairing it with a very light color like #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Alternatively, if #180096 is used as a background color, ensure that the foreground text is a light color. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can assist in verifying sufficient contrast. Furthermore, avoid using color alone to convey important information; supplement it with text or icons for users who may be colorblind.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #003399
A more vibrant and saturated blue, suitable for accent colors and highlights.
- #000066
A darker blue that can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication.
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine (#180096) can be used as a primary color for website headers and navigation bars to create a professional and trustworthy feel. It pairs well with white or light gray text for readability. Buttons and interactive elements can also utilize this color for a consistent brand identity. The deep hue conveys a sense of stability and can be particularly effective for businesses in the finance or technology sectors. Use with discretion as too much blue can feel cold. Complementary accent colors like a muted yellow or orange can add warmth and visual interest to the design.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine is a classic and sophisticated color choice for formal wear, particularly for evening gowns and suits. Its deep, rich tone adds a touch of elegance and can be paired with silver or gold accessories for a luxurious look. In cosmetics, ultramarine pigments are used in eyeshadows and eyeliners to create a striking and dramatic effect. It's also a popular color for nail polish, offering a bold and stylish statement. Due to the darkness of the color, it's best suited for evening and formal occasions. When used for clothing, lighter fabrics can help make the colour feel less imposing.
Interior Design
Ultramarine is often used as an accent color in interior design to add a touch of sophistication and depth to a room. It can be used for accent walls, throw pillows, or artwork to create a focal point. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. It's essential to use this color sparingly, as too much can make a room feel dark and cramped. Incorporating lighter blues and whites, and strategically using sources of warm light, can balance ultramarine's intensity, creating a balanced and inviting space.