Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hexadecimal color #1808AE, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue. It's composed of 9.4% red, 3.1% green, and 68.2% blue. In the RGB color space, it's represented as (24, 8, 174). Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as trust, authority, and sophistication. This color has a rich history, derived from the pigment made from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. Due to its historical value and intense hue, ultramarine was highly prized by artists throughout history. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, but the name still evokes the color's regal origins and its use in iconic artworks. It's considered a cool color and it can create a sense of calm and serenity.
The color #1808AE, a deep shade of Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges in web design. Its low luminance value of approximately 4% means that text rendered in this color requires a very light foreground color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast requirements. Using white (#FFFFFF) or very light gray text is crucial to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Background colors should also be carefully chosen to provide sufficient contrast. Tools such as contrast checkers are highly valuable for verifying compliance. Failure to meet contrast requirements can result in content being inaccessible to a significant portion of users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Alternatives include lighter shades of blue or using #1808AE sparingly for decorative elements rather than essential text or interactive components.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility for a wider range of users.
A more muted blue that can be used as a secondary color without overwhelming the design, offering a subtle yet sophisticated aesthetic.
A vibrant blue that stands out and is suitable for highlighting key elements, ensuring they are easily noticed by the user.
Applications
Web Design: Emphasizing Trust
In web design, Ultramarine can be used for creating a sense of trust and authority. It's a good choice for headings, buttons, and other key elements where you want to draw attention and convey reliability. When used sparingly, it can create a professional look and feel. However, care must be taken to ensure proper contrast with text and background colors for accessibility. It is often used in the tech industry to inspire confidence in users.
Fashion: A Bold Accent
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used as a bold accent color in clothing and accessories. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, white, and black, adding a pop of vibrancy to any outfit. It can be incorporated into statement pieces like scarves, handbags, or even shoes to create a striking visual impact. Ultramarine can also be combined with other jewel tones for a more luxurious and sophisticated look.
Interior Design: Calming Atmosphere
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It's an excellent choice for accent walls, furniture, and decorative accessories. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, and even home offices, adding a touch of elegance and serenity to the space. When used in moderation, Ultramarine can transform any room into a relaxing oasis. Using this color in bedrooms creates a relaxing place to rest.