Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1D14A2, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally made from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, imported from faraway lands. This color is associated with royalty, intellect, and spirituality, often evoking feelings of calmness, wisdom, and depth. In the RGB color model, #1D14A2 is composed of 11.4% red, 7.8% green, and 63.5% blue. Its prominence in art history is notable, with many Renaissance painters valuing it highly for its rich and lasting hue. Today, Ultramarine is widely used in various applications, from graphic design and web development to fashion and interior decor.
The color #1D14A2, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low lightness value. When used as a background color, it requires careful consideration of the foreground text color to ensure sufficient contrast. A light color, such as white or a very pale yellow, would be necessary to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. Small text is harder to read, hence larger text is highly recommended. Using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links also necessitates clear visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or borders, to aid users who are colorblind or have low vision. In situations where color contrast cannot be sufficiently improved, avoiding the use of this color for crucial information or interactive components is advisable to ensure an inclusive user experience. Testing with accessibility tools is crucial to validate the effectiveness of color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#1D14A2) can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for websites related to technology, finance, or education. It is often used in headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color to highlight important information. When used sparingly and paired with complementary colors like a light yellow or gold, it can create a visually appealing and engaging user experience. However, care should be taken to ensure sufficient contrast between text and background, particularly for smaller font sizes, to maintain accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine (#1D14A2) can bring a sense of depth and sophistication to a room. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a calming yet luxurious atmosphere. When paired with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, it can add a pop of color without being overwhelming. It's also a popular choice for upholstery, rugs, or decorative accessories, providing a touch of elegance and style. The color can create a luxurious and calming ambiance.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine (#1D14A2) is a bold and eye-catching color that can make a statement. It is often used in evening wear, such as dresses or suits, to create a dramatic and sophisticated look. It can be paired with metallic accessories like silver or gold to enhance its richness. Ultramarine is also a popular choice for outerwear, such as coats or jackets, adding a touch of color to a winter wardrobe. For a more casual look, it can be used in accessories like scarves, hats, or handbags, adding a pop of color to a neutral outfit.