Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine (#18169d)

The color #18169d, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue with a strong presence. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone Lapis Lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly valued pigments. It was highly prized by Renaissance artists and often reserved for depicting religious figures, most notably the Virgin Mary. Today, synthetic alternatives have made this color more accessible, but it still retains its association with luxury and sophistication. In color psychology, Ultramarine is often associated with wisdom, trust, and stability, making it a popular choice for brands that want to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism.

The hex color #18169d, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background color for text. Due to its dark nature, text rendered in lighter shades of white or yellow is necessary to achieve sufficient contrast. Ensuring a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as defined by WCAG guidelines, is crucial for readability. Using contrast checking tools during the design process is highly recommended. Furthermore, avoid using #18169d as a primary color for interactive elements without careful consideration of focus states and hover effects. Implementing visual cues beyond color, such as underlines or borders, can significantly enhance accessibility for users with color vision deficiencies. Thoughtful application of this vibrant hue is key to ensuring an inclusive user experience.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Accent

  Ultramarine can be used as a bold accent color in website designs, particularly for headers, buttons, or call-to-action elements. Its rich hue can draw attention and add a sense of sophistication. However, it's important to balance its intensity with more neutral colors to avoid overwhelming the user. In UI design, it can effectively communicate important notifications or highlight key information, improving user experience and engagement. Furthermore, #18169d can be used to define a strong brand identity associated with trust and authority.

• Fashion Design

  Ultramarine is a classic color in fashion, often used in evening wear and sophisticated designs. It's known for its ability to flatter various skin tones and can be paired with metallics or other jewel tones for a luxurious effect. Ultramarine's depth and richness make it a timeless selection in fashion, perfect for creating elegant and memorable ensembles. It evokes a sense of confidence and style, adding a touch of timeless charm to any look.

• Interior Design

  As a deep and calming color, ultramarine is a great choice for creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere in interior design. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, or as a primary color in upholstery and decor. Ultramarine pairs well with neutrals such as grays and whites, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. The result is a stylish and relaxing space that makes a strong impact while still being comfortable.

Complementary color

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