Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #1D03B0, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue with a hint of violet. It derives its name from the precious pigment historically made from lapis lazuli, a gemstone sourced from overseas ('ultra mare' in Latin means 'beyond the sea'). Ultramarine blue has been prized for centuries by artists and was often reserved for painting the robes of the Virgin Mary due to its cost and rarity. In the RGB color model, #1D03B0 consists of 11.4% red, 1.2% green, and 69% blue. In the CMYK color model, it comprises 83.4% cyan, 98.2% magenta, 0% yellow, and 31% black. This color evokes feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. It is often associated with trust, loyalty, and intelligence. Ultramarine is commonly used in branding, web design, and art to convey a sense of stability and authority.
The color #1D03B0, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low luminance value means that text rendered in this color requires careful consideration of contrast ratios against background colors. To ensure readability, it is crucial to pair #1D03B0 with very light colors like white or very pale yellows. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using online contrast checkers is highly advisable to verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using #1D03B0 for interactive elements like links or buttons without clear visual cues, as users with visual impairments may struggle to identify them. Offering alternative color schemes can also improve accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine (#1D03B0) can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication in website designs. It's particularly effective for headers, navigation menus, or accent colors when paired with lighter, more neutral tones. This color evokes feelings of trust and reliability, making it suitable for corporate websites or online platforms seeking to project a professional image. However, due to its deep saturation, use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user. Combine it with ample white space and clear typography to maintain readability and visual balance. It can also be utilized in UI design to highlight important features or call-to-action buttons.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine serves as a bold accent color, injecting drama and personality into a space. Consider using it for a feature wall, a statement piece of furniture, or decorative accessories like cushions and throws. It pairs beautifully with neutral palettes like grays, whites, and creams, creating a sophisticated and balanced look. The color can also be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere, especially when combined with natural materials like wood and stone. Just avoid overusing it in small spaces, as its intensity can make the room feel smaller and more enclosed. Balance it with lighter, airier elements to maintain a sense of spaciousness.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine (#1D03B0) can be a striking and sophisticated choice. A solid ultramarine garment makes a bold statement, particularly suitable for evening wear or special occasions. As an accent color, it can add a pop of vibrancy to a more subdued outfit. Think ultramarine accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes paired with neutral-toned clothing. Given its depth and richness, ultramarine works well with various fabrics, from silk and velvet to cotton and denim. It is especially flattering when contrasted with lighter skin tones or combined with metallic accents like gold or silver. However, avoid wearing ultramarine head-to-toe, as this can appear overpowering; instead, use it strategically to highlight key features.