Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #1B1289, often referred to as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It is composed of 10.6% red, 7.1% green, and 53.7% blue. In the RGB color space, it is closer to pure blue than pure red or green. Ultramarine's historical significance stems from its use in fine art, where it was derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. Due to the high cost of lapis lazuli, ultramarine pigment was once more valuable than gold. Today, synthetic ultramarine is readily available, making it a popular choice in various applications. Its rich, intense hue evokes feelings of depth, tranquility, and sophistication. In web design and graphic design, #1B1289 can be used to create a sense of authority, trust, and elegance, often used in branding and designs related to technology, finance, or education.
The color #1B1289, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its low lightness value (close to black) necessitates very light text to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When pairing this color with text, it's crucial to use a color contrast checker to verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color for crucial UI elements without proper contrast, as it can severely impact usability for users with visual impairments. Consider providing alternative color themes or options for users to customize the display for optimal readability. This dark color might be problematic for users with low vision or color blindness if contrast is not carefully considered.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, this color could be used as a header or footer background to create a sense of sophistication and depth. It's particularly well-suited for websites in the technology, finance, or education sectors where a sense of authority and trust is important. However, care must be taken to ensure that text and interactive elements placed on this background have sufficient contrast to meet accessibility standards. It can also be effectively used for graphical elements such as icons or illustrations, adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming the overall design. Consider using it sparingly, paired with lighter, complementary colors to achieve a balanced and visually appealing aesthetic.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine (#1B1289) can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire to convey a sense of elegance and sophistication. Its depth and richness make it ideal for creating statement pieces that exude confidence and style. This color works well in luxurious fabrics such as velvet or silk, enhancing the overall visual impact. It is also a popular choice for accessories like handbags or shoes, adding a pop of color to more neutral outfits. When styling with this color, consider pairing it with metallics like gold or silver to create a glamorous look, or with lighter shades of blue or grey for a more subtle and refined aesthetic.
Interior Design Accent
This deep ultramarine hue can be used as an accent wall color to create a focal point in a room, adding depth and visual interest. In interior design, it serves as a striking accent within a mostly neutral color scheme, particularly in living rooms or bedrooms. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of grey, beige, or white to create a balanced and harmonious atmosphere. This color also works well with natural materials such as wood or stone, enhancing the sense of warmth and texture. You could also use it for furniture upholstery or decorative accessories like cushions and throws, introducing a touch of luxury and sophistication to the space. Ensure that the room has adequate lighting to prevent the color from appearing too dark or overwhelming.