Ultramarine
General Information about #1C0F89
The hex color code #1C0F89 represents a deep shade of ultramarine. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 11% red, 5.9% green, and 53.7% blue. This color is predominantly blue, with very little presence of red and green, resulting in a deep and saturated hue. Ultramarine is historically significant, derived from the pigment made from ground lapis lazuli stone. It has been prized for centuries for its vibrant and enduring color. In modern usage, it is associated with sophistication, depth, and formality. Its spectral data indicates a strong reflectance in the blue wavelengths, contributing to its visual perception as a deep blue.
The color #1C0F89, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its low lightness value (approximately 6%) results in very low contrast against a standard white background. This severely impacts readability for users, especially those with visual impairments. To meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, it's crucial to pair this color with a very light foreground color to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using a color contrast checker is highly recommended. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of important information (e.g., in form fields or error messages). Supplement with text labels or icons to ensure accessibility for colorblind users. Consider offering alternative color schemes to accommodate user preferences and needs. This deep blue can be used for decorative elements where the contrast is less important.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332990
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2c2d3d
A dark gray-blue that offers a more neutral alternative, suitable for backgrounds or less prominent elements.
- #2e29dd
A vibrant blue that provides better contrast and can be used to highlight important elements.
Applications
Financial Institution Websites
Ultramarine is a color that can evoke a sense of trust, security, and calmness. In web design, it can be utilized for the headers and footers of financial institution websites to create a professional and trustworthy ambiance. The dark blue can also be employed for call-to-action buttons, especially when paired with a contrasting color like yellow or orange, to make them stand out. However, its use should be limited as an accent color to prevent overwhelming the user, and it must be paired with adequate contrast for accessibility, which is very important for professional sites.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used as the primary color for evening gowns or sophisticated outerwear. Its depth and richness create a luxurious and elegant feel. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. This dark blue complements metallic accents like silver or gold and works well with fabrics such as silk or velvet. Designers need to be mindful of the occasion where the color is used.
Interior Design
For interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to add depth and create a focal point. It also suits the walls of a home office or library. It can be used in smaller doses for decorative elements like throw pillows, curtains, or rugs to add a touch of sophistication. Ultramarine pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, as well as natural materials like wood or stone. The user should know that this color darkens a room if used too much.