Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #1E00A4, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue, often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. It is located in the blue region of the color spectrum and derives its name from the pigment originally made from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. The color has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was highly valued for its brilliance and permanence. In modern color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, often evoking feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. It is widely used in art, design, and fashion, and is often associated with trust, authority, and intelligence. Its hex code #1E00A4 represents its unique combination of red, green, and blue light wavelengths.
The color #1E00A4, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its dark hue means that text rendered in this color on a white background generally meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards for contrast. However, it's crucial to verify contrast ratios using automated tools to ensure compliance, especially if used for smaller text sizes. When used as a background color, light-colored text is necessary to provide sufficient contrast. Avoid pairing this color with other dark shades, as this can make content illegible. Also, be mindful of colorblind users; relying solely on color to convey information is discouraged. Providing supplementary cues, such as text labels or icons, is advisable to ensure that the information is accessible to everyone, regardless of their visual abilities. In summary, while Ultramarine can be visually appealing, careful consideration of contrast and alternative cues is necessary to maintain accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3f51b5
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability for users with visual impairments.
- #2196f3
A more vibrant shade of blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a webpage, while still maintaining sufficient contrast.
- #64b5f6
A desaturated blue that provides a more subtle and calming effect, ideal for backgrounds or secondary elements.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, or #1E00A4, can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a strong visual frame for the content. Its deep, rich tone evokes a sense of professionalism and stability. Using it as a background color for these elements can add depth and visual interest, especially when paired with contrasting text and imagery. The color can also be incorporated into call-to-action buttons to draw the user's eye, or as the main color in navigation menus, making them appear more organized and appealing. The psychological effect of blue often associated with trust and authority makes it a strategic choice for brands looking to establish credibility online.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can add a touch of elegance and drama to any room. Consider using it as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a focal point. The color pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, or white to create a balanced and sophisticated look. Ultramarine can also be used in smaller doses through accessories such as cushions, curtains, or rugs. For a bold statement, paint kitchen cabinets in Ultramarine, but balance the intensity with light-colored countertops and backsplash to avoid overwhelming the space. Its calming and luxurious effect works particularly well in studies or reading nooks.
Fashion
Ultramarine is a bold and sophisticated choice for fashion, particularly for evening wear or statement pieces. Consider a velvet Ultramarine dress for a luxurious and eye-catching look. For a more subtle approach, incorporate the color through accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes. Ultramarine also works well in menswear, adding a touch of elegance to suits or jackets. When pairing Ultramarine with other colors, consider complementary hues such as mustard yellow or coral for a vibrant contrast. Neutral colors like black, gray, or white can also be used to balance the intensity of the color.