Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #18088E, also known as Ultramarine, is a dark and captivating shade of blue. It resides in the blue color family and carries a sense of depth and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.41% red, 3.14% green, and 55.69% blue. This color is often associated with qualities like trust, intelligence, and stability, making it a popular choice for branding and visual communication. Its CMYK values are 83% cyan, 94% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. The color's prominence in art history stems from the pigment derived from lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized and expensive color for centuries, often reserved for depicting important figures and religious scenes. Its rich history and evocative nature contribute to its enduring appeal in various design fields.
The color #18088E, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it falls far short of WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio, making it difficult for users with low vision to read comfortably. A light-colored text, such as white or very light gray, against this background would also likely fail accessibility standards. To improve accessibility, consider using a much lighter shade of blue or a contrasting color like yellow or orange for text or interactive elements. Furthermore, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; always provide supplementary cues like text labels or icons. This ensures that all users, including those with color blindness, can understand the content effectively. Careful consideration of color combinations and luminance contrast is crucial for inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be utilized as a background color for headers or call-to-action buttons to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with light-colored text to ensure readability. It can also be used sparingly for decorative elements or icons to add visual interest without overwhelming the user. When applied to data visualizations, it could represent a specific category or data series, but care should be taken to ensure it is distinguishable from other colors used in the chart, especially for users with color vision deficiencies. Proper use of Ultramarine can lend a sense of depth and professionalism to a website's overall aesthetic.
Fashion
Ultramarine's depth and richness make it a captivating choice for evening wear or formal attire, lending an air of sophistication and mystery. It can be used as the primary color for a dress or suit, or as an accent color in accessories like scarves, ties, or jewelry. When paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, Ultramarine exudes luxury and glamour, perfect for special occasions. In casual wear, it can be incorporated into denim or knitwear to add a touch of elegance to everyday outfits. Whether used boldly or subtly, Ultramarine is sure to make a statement in any fashion ensemble.
Interior Design
As wall paint in living rooms or bedrooms, ultramarine can bring a calming and elegant atmosphere. It's best suited for rooms with ample natural light to prevent them from feeling too dark. Ultramarine can be complemented with neutral furniture and decor elements, such as white or beige sofas, wooden tables, and metallic accents, to create a balanced and inviting space. It can also be used as an accent color on cushions, curtains, or artwork to add a pop of color to a neutral-toned room. When used in combination with warm colors like gold or copper, ultramarine creates a luxurious and harmonious ambiance.