Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #180398, is a deep and intense shade of blue that has been prized for centuries. Historically, it was derived from the mineral lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and sought-after pigments. Its name, meaning "beyond the sea," reflects its origin as a pigment imported from distant lands. In modern color theory, Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as royalty, wisdom, and tranquility. It is a popular choice in art, design, and fashion for its ability to convey both depth and sophistication. Due to its strong saturation, it is often used sparingly to create emphasis and visual interest. It is a cool color and is best complemented with warm colors.
The hex color #180398, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its dark hue results in very low contrast when paired with lighter text, potentially making content illegible for users with visual impairments. Following WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine struggles to meet these ratios with standard light foreground colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of blues or vibrant yellows as the background color. Also, providing alternative text descriptions for images and interactive elements that use this color ensures that users with screen readers can still understand the content. Careful consideration is crucial when implementing this color in designs to avoid excluding users and maintain an inclusive experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast with both light and dark text, improving readability and accessibility while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A vibrant, saturated blue that stands out well and can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a page, providing a good balance between visual appeal and usability.
A softer, more muted blue that creates a calming and professional atmosphere, suitable for backgrounds or accents where a less intense color is desired.
Applications
Website Navigation Menus
Ultramarine can be used in website navigation menus to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Its rich hue makes it suitable for highlighting active menu items or for use as a background color for the navigation bar. When used in conjunction with white or light-colored text, it can provide a visually appealing and user-friendly navigation experience. Ensure sufficient contrast is maintained for accessibility.
Fashion Design
In fashion design, Ultramarine can be used as a bold and striking color for evening gowns or formal wear. Its depth and intensity evoke feelings of luxury and elegance. It pairs well with metallic accents such as gold or silver, and can be used to create dramatic and eye-catching designs. It is often used in silk or velvet to enhance its richness.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms to add a touch of sophistication. It can be incorporated through throw pillows, artwork, or accent walls. When used sparingly, it can create a sense of calm and tranquility. Complementary colors such as gold or yellow can be used to balance the boldness of Ultramarine.