Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hexadecimal color #1C03B1, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It is composed of 11% red, 1% green, and 70% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R:28, G:3, B:177. Ultramarine, historically derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, has been prized for its rich, intense hue, particularly in fine art and decoration. Modern ultramarine is often synthetically produced, making it more accessible and affordable. Its distinctive depth and clarity make it a captivating and versatile color for both traditional and contemporary applications. The color is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality, making it a popular choice for brands and designs aiming to convey these qualities.
The color #1C03B1, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its low lightness value (approximately 6%) means it offers very poor contrast when used as text against a standard white background. This fails WCAG standards for both normal and large text sizes, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider using #1C03B1 for decorative elements or backgrounds in combination with very light text colors like white or light grey. Alternatively, use it with a darker background and very light text. Tools like contrast checkers can help ensure sufficient contrast ratios. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on this color to convey important information; supplement it with text labels or other visual cues to ensure inclusivity for all users, especially those with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1C03B1 can be used to create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. It can serve as a background color for headers or footers, providing a sense of depth and luxury. When used sparingly for text highlights or button accents, it can draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the user. However, due to its darkness, it's crucial to pair it with lighter complementary colors to ensure readability and accessibility, making it a captivating addition to a site's visual identity. Proper color selection is paramount for a professional online presence.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine (#1C03B1) evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and mystery. It can be used in clothing designs for evening wear or formal attire, creating a striking and elegant look. As an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags, it can add a touch of refinement to an outfit. Ultramarine is also a popular choice for nail polish and eye makeup, providing a bold and dramatic effect. Because of its richness, using this color in fashion requires careful consideration of the overall style and occasion to avoid overwhelming other elements.
Interior Design
In interior design, #1C03B1 can create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, providing a sense of depth and visual interest. When used in furniture upholstery or decorative pillows, it can add a pop of color to a neutral space. Ultramarine pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, creating a sophisticated and elegant aesthetic. However, it's crucial to balance the color with lighter elements to prevent the room from feeling too dark or enclosed. Smart use of lighting enhances its beauty.