Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #1A0A8A, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue-violet. It falls within the blue color family and is characterized by its rich and intense hue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 10.2% red, 3.92% green, and 54.12% blue. This combination results in a color that is both visually striking and calming. Ultramarine has a historical significance, originally derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art. It is often associated with royalty, spirituality, and intellect, giving it a sense of prestige and depth. Its use in various applications ranges from digital design to traditional painting, reflecting its versatility and timeless appeal. The color's name itself suggests a connection to the sea (ultra meaning "beyond" and marine referring to the sea), evoking feelings of vastness and depth.
The color #1A0A8A, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a primary text color on a white or light background. Due to its dark hue, it offers limited contrast, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read comfortably. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To enhance accessibility, consider pairing Ultramarine with lighter shades for text or using it sparingly for decorative elements. Providing alternative color schemes or high-contrast options ensures a more inclusive user experience. It's also crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance with contrast ratio requirements, benefiting all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Large text and graphical objects will have different contrast requirements. Keep these guidelines in mind when designing websites or applications to enhance the accessibility of the visual elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#1A0A8A) can be used for headings, navigation bars, or as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements. Its deep, rich hue evokes feelings of sophistication and trustworthiness, making it suitable for websites related to finance, technology, or education. However, it should be used judiciously, pairing it with lighter colors for text to ensure readability. For instance, a website for a university might use Ultramarine for its logo and main headings, combined with a lighter blue or white for body text to maintain visual balance and accessibility. Consider using it for interactive elements like buttons or links to provide visual cues to the user.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as a wall color in studies or libraries to create a calming yet sophisticated environment. It can also be used in upholstery for sofas or armchairs, paired with lighter-colored cushions and accessories to balance the darkness. The deep blue can make a room feel smaller, so it's best used in well-lit spaces or as an accent color. It evokes a sense of luxury and formality and pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver. A room with a feature wall in Ultramarine can be enhanced with strategically placed lighting to add depth and dimension.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine can be used to create elegant evening wear or professional business attire. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, as well as metallics like gold or silver. A simple Ultramarine dress can be accessorized with statement jewelry or a contrasting belt to add visual interest. It is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Using it as the primary color for a suit can project an air of confidence and authority, making it an excellent choice for professional settings.