Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1A0E8D, is a deep, intense shade of blue that evokes feelings of royalty, sophistication, and mystery. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized colors used by artists. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from lands east of Europe. In modern color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with tranquility and depth. It is used in a variety of applications, from fine art and graphic design to fashion and interior decor. Its unique blend of blue and violet undertones sets it apart from other blue shades, giving it a distinctive and captivating appeal.
The color #1A0E8D, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white or light-colored background. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read comfortably. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine often falls short of these recommendations. To improve accessibility, consider using it sparingly for decorative elements or pairing it with very light colors. Employing a color contrast checker is essential to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and to provide an inclusive user experience. Another way to improve accessibility is to increase the font size or weight when using Ultramarine for text. This can help to make the text more legible for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design and UI
Ultramarine, with its deep and rich hue, lends an air of sophistication and depth to website designs. It can be used sparingly for headings, accents, or call-to-action buttons to draw attention without overwhelming the user. Due to its darkness, it's best paired with lighter backgrounds to ensure readability and accessibility. In user interface design, Ultramarine can be used to indicate interactive elements, such as hyperlinks or clickable icons. This creates a sense of familiarity and guides the user through the interface. Using Ultramarine will give the application or website a sleek, professional look.
Fashion and Apparel
Ultramarine is a striking color choice for evening wear or formal attire. It complements a wide range of skin tones and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. It can be used as the primary color for dresses, suits, or blouses, or as an accent color for accessories like scarves, jewelry, or handbags. Ultramarine pairs well with metallics like gold or silver, as well as neutral colors like black, white, or gray. Consider incorporating Ultramarine into your wardrobe to elevate your personal style and make a lasting impression at your next special event.
Interior Design
As an accent wall color, Ultramarine offers a sense of depth and sophistication to any room. It's particularly effective in spaces where you want to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere, such as bedrooms or living rooms. Ultramarine also works well as an accent color for furniture, artwork, or decorative accessories. It can be used to highlight architectural features, such as crown molding or window frames. Due to its richness, it's best to use Ultramarine sparingly in interior design to avoid overwhelming the space. Use in combination with lighter colors such as white or light grey.