Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#18098E)
The color #18098E, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, vivid shade of blue. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally made from lapis lazuli imported from Asia. Historically, ultramarine was a highly prized pigment, often more expensive than gold, and was reserved for the most important figures in paintings, such as the Virgin Mary. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it a more accessible color. In the RGB color model, #18098E is composed of 9.41% red, 3.53% green, and 55.69% blue. Its hex code representation makes it easily usable in digital design. The color is associated with feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication.
The color #18098E, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly regarding contrast. When used as a foreground color, it requires a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for sufficient contrast. A light gray or white background is almost essential for readability. Using this color for text on darker backgrounds is strongly discouraged due to the low contrast ratio, which can make it difficult for users, especially those with visual impairments, to discern the text. In user interface design, consider using this color sparingly for decorative elements or as an accent color, rather than for essential information. Providing alternative high-contrast themes or allowing users to customize colors can significantly improve the accessibility of content using this deep shade of blue.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #a8b3c6
A desaturated blue that can be used as a background color, complementing the main ultramarine color without causing visual strain.
- #4287f5
A brighter blue that could be used for highlights or interactive elements.
Applications
User Interface Design
In user interface design, ultramarine can be used sparingly for headings, accents, or decorative elements. Due to its depth and intensity, it is best paired with neutral backgrounds to avoid overwhelming the user. Consider using it for primary action buttons or important callouts, but ensure sufficient contrast with the surrounding text and elements to maintain accessibility. The color is suitable for data visualization in charts and graphs where a distinct and easily identifiable color is needed to represent a specific data set.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine is a bold and sophisticated color choice. It can be used in evening wear, statement pieces, or as an accent color in accessories. Its depth makes it suitable for luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk. This color can also be incorporated into casual wear, such as denim or knitwear, to add a touch of elegance. When using ultramarine in fashion, consider pairing it with complementary colors like gold or silver for a striking contrast, or with neutral tones for a more understated look.
Marine-Themed Websites
Ultramarine, reminiscent of deep-sea hues, finds great use in marine-themed websites. Its strong visual presence can add depth and evoke a sense of underwater exploration. Can be used for the background of a company that specializes in submersibles or ocean mapping. This color can be complemented with lighter shades of blue and white to create a nautical feel, conveying both adventure and reliability.