Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #1d009b, is a deep, rich blue color reminiscent of the pigment originally derived from lapis lazuli. Its name literally means "beyond the sea," reflecting its historical journey to Europe from mines in Asia. In the RGB color model, #1d009b consists of 11.4% red, 0% green, and 60.8% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 81% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39% black. This color evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and authority, making it a popular choice in various design applications. Its strong blue component lends it a sense of stability and depth, while its near absence of green and low red value contribute to its cool and sophisticated character. The color is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality.
The hex color #1d009b, a deep ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its low lightness value (approximately 12%) means it requires careful consideration when used as a foreground color. To ensure sufficient contrast for readability, it's crucial to pair it with a light background. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text according to WCAG guidelines. Using online contrast checkers is highly advisable to verify compliance. When used as a background, light text is essential. Moreover, avoid using this color for critical interface elements or important information without ensuring adequate contrast, as it might be missed by users with visual impairments. Semantic HTML and ARIA attributes can further enhance accessibility, providing context and meaning beyond the color itself.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability for text.
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a page without sacrificing too much contrast.
A darker neutral color that can be used as a background color alternative.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine (#1d009b) can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It works well for navigation bars, headers, and other prominent elements. However, due to its darkness, it's best paired with lighter text and complementary colors to ensure readability and visual balance. It's also suitable for backgrounds in sections where a strong visual impact is desired, but always with careful consideration of text contrast. Ultramarine is often used in themes related to technology, finance, or education, where a sense of stability and trust is important. In charts and graphs, it can effectively represent key data points.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can add a touch of drama and elegance to a space. It can be used as an accent wall color, in upholstery, or in decorative accessories. When using ultramarine, it's important to balance it with lighter and warmer colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or cold. Consider using it in rooms with ample natural light to maximize its impact. Ultramarine pairs well with metallics like gold or silver for a luxurious feel, or with natural materials like wood and stone for a more grounded and organic look. It can also be used to create a focal point in a room, drawing the eye to a specific area.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine conveys sophistication and confidence. It can be used in evening wear, outerwear, or accessories. Pair it with neutral colors for a classic look, or with bold colors like red or yellow for a more daring statement. Consider using ultramarine in fabrics like velvet or silk to enhance its richness and depth. It's a versatile color that can be worn by people of all skin tones and hair colors. Ultramarine is also a popular choice for corporate attire, as it projects professionalism and authority. Accessorize with silver or gold jewelry to complete the look.