Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #190296, is a deep and rich blue color. It is a dark shade of blue, often associated with depth, stability, and intelligence. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly valued pigments. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from lands beyond the sea. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, but the color still retains its association with luxury and sophistication. In color psychology, ultramarine is believed to evoke feelings of calmness, serenity, and introspection, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to create a sense of trust and reliability.
The contrast ratio of #190296 with white text is approximately 11.2:1, which provides excellent readability and meets the WCAG AAA standards for text larger than 18pt or 14pt bold. For smaller text, it still meets the AA standard. When used as a background, lighter shades of text like white or very pale yellows will ensure the content is easily legible. Designers should avoid pairing this color with darker text shades such as black or dark grey as the contrast would be insufficient, potentially causing readability issues for users, especially those with visual impairments. Ensuring sufficient contrast is crucial for providing an inclusive and accessible user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3329a6
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers a bit more brightness.
- #0f00b3
A more saturated blue that provides a bolder, more vibrant visual impact while staying within the ultramarine family.
- #0d014d
A darker shade that can provide better contrast when a very deep, rich blue is needed.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #190296 can be used as a primary color for a website's theme, particularly for sites related to technology, education, or finance, where a sense of trust and authority is important. As a background color it needs light text to provide enough contrast, but it can also be used for decorative accents, button backgrounds, and interactive elements to add depth and visual interest. The color evokes feelings of stability and professionalism, making it a good choice for branding elements as well.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, ultramarine can be incorporated into clothing designs to create elegant and sophisticated looks. It's suitable for both formal wear, such as evening gowns and suits, and casual attire, like sweaters and blouses. The color's depth makes it a versatile option for accessories like handbags, scarves, and jewelry, adding a touch of luxury and refinement to any outfit. This color is often associated with high-end brands and can help to create a sense of exclusivity and style.
Interior Design
Interior designers often use ultramarine to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in residential and commercial spaces. It can be applied as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to add depth and character, or used for furniture upholstery, rugs, and decorative accessories to introduce a pop of color. The color pairs well with neutral tones like white, gray, and beige, as well as with metallic accents like gold or silver, allowing for a range of design styles from classic to modern.