Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1A0D91, is a deep and rich shade of blue. It belongs to the family of blue colors and is often associated with feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. This particular shade of blue is created by combining a small amount of red and green with a significant amount of blue, which results in its distinctive dark and intense appearance. In color theory, Ultramarine is often used to evoke a sense of calmness and serenity, while also conveying a sense of authority and trustworthiness. The color's name comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, imported from far-off lands. Ultramarine has been used for centuries in art and design.
The color #1A0D91, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Using a color contrast checker is essential to verify compliance. Consider avoiding using #1A0D91 for crucial textual information without careful pairing with an appropriate foreground color. Moreover, individuals with visual impairments might find it difficult to distinguish elements using this dark color if surrounding elements are not significantly brighter. Employing sufficient spacing and clear visual cues can help mitigate these issues. When using this color for interactive elements such as buttons or links, ensure that hover and focus states provide sufficient contrast change to indicate interactivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#1A0D91) can be employed to create a sophisticated and luxurious aesthetic. It works well for headers, navigation bars, and background accents, especially on websites targeting a mature audience. The color evokes feelings of trust and stability. Pairing it with lighter shades or complementary colors like yellow or gold can create a visually appealing contrast that captures attention without sacrificing elegance. Use sparingly to highlight key sections of the design and provide a sense of depth and sophistication.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sense of calm and tranquility in bedrooms or studies. It can be applied to walls, accent pieces, or upholstery, creating a focal point that is both stylish and inviting. Complementary colors like warm grays, creams, and golds can be added to balance the boldness of ultramarine, resulting in a serene atmosphere. Accessorize with plush textures and metallic accents to enhance the luxurious feel. Appropriate lighting is crucial to ensure the color doesn’t darken the room too much.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be utilized in both statement pieces and subtle accents. For formal wear, a dress or suit in this color exudes elegance and confidence. For casual wear, it can be used in accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. Pair with contrasting colors like mustard yellow or fuchsia for a bold, eye-catching look, or with classic neutrals like black, white, or gray for a timeless and sophisticated ensemble.