Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#1D0197)
The color #1D0197, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It is characterized by its rich, almost violet undertones, giving it a luxurious and sophisticated appearance. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it highly valued and expensive. This association with rarity and prestige has contributed to its perception as a color of royalty and elegance. In color psychology, ultramarine is often associated with feelings of calmness, serenity, and wisdom. It can evoke a sense of depth and introspection, making it suitable for designs that aim to inspire trust and credibility. Its unique depth makes it stand out from other blue shades.
The color #1D0197, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its low lightness value (approximately 11%) means that it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #1D0197 as a background, text colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays are advisable. However, even with white text, careful attention should be paid to font size and weight to maximize readability, especially for users with visual impairments. Avoid using this color for crucial interactive elements without rigorous testing, as its darkness can make it challenging for some users to perceive subtle visual cues. Providing sufficient spacing and clear visual indicators is essential to enhance usability. Also, consider offering alternative color themes to accommodate users with different visual preferences and needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33299f
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast and visibility, while maintaining a similar aesthetic appeal. It also works better with darker text.
- #3d00b8
A more vibrant color with increased saturation, which can improve prominence and is more suitable for UI elements such as buttons and links.
- #5840ba
A softer color that is lighter and less intense, making it suitable for backgrounds and large areas without overwhelming the user.
Applications
Luxury Brand Websites
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, can be effectively used to create visually engaging websites for luxury brands. It conveys sophistication and exclusivity when used sparingly as an accent color, combined with neutral backgrounds and elegant typography. It is particularly suitable for headers, calls to action, and interactive elements to draw attention without overpowering the overall design. The color can also be used to highlight important information, such as contact details or special offers, making them stand out from the surrounding content. Furthermore, the color can be used in animations.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, ultramarine is often used to create a focal point in a room, such as an accent wall or a statement piece of furniture. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, particularly when paired with complementary colors like gold or cream. The color can also be used in textiles, such as cushions or curtains, to add depth and visual interest to a space. It is well-suited for creating a serene and calming atmosphere in bedrooms or studies when balanced with softer tones and natural materials.
Fashion Design
In fashion, ultramarine can be used as a bold and striking color for evening wear or accessories. It complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with metallic accents for a glamorous look. The color also works well in casual wear, such as denim or knitwear, adding a touch of sophistication to everyday outfits. It can be used as the main color for dresses, shirts, or skirts or as an accent color for shoes, bags, or jewelry.