Ultramarine
General Information About Ultramarine
The hex color #1E0A91, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family. This color is composed of 11.8% red, 3.9% green, and 56.9% blue. In the RGB color model, #1E0A91 consists of 11.8% red, 3.9% green, and 56.9% blue. In the CMYK color model, if offers values of 79% cyan, 96% magenta, 0% yellow, and 43% black. Ultramarine is often associated with depth, stability, and tranquility. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued and expensive color. Today, synthetic ultramarine provides a more accessible alternative, retaining the color's characteristic richness and depth.
The color #1E0A91, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means it offers very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color fails to meet these standards when paired with white or light backgrounds, making text difficult to read for users, especially those with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, it's essential to use #1E0A91 with much lighter colors that significantly increase the contrast ratio. Also avoid using it for interactive elements without clear visual cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue can offer a similar aesthetic while improving contrast against light backgrounds.
A more vibrant blue can draw attention and provide better visibility.
Using a desaturated blue allows for a more subtle incorporation of blue into designs while being conscious of accessibility needs.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, ultramarine can be used sparingly as an accent color to highlight specific elements, such as buttons or links. Because of its darkness, it's best to use it for backgrounds of sections where the text is light, and in bigger font sizes, thus ensuring readability and avoiding eye strain. Ultramarine might be too overpowering if used for larger areas. Consider also using it on hover states to give a visual cue to the user of an intended interaction. The right choice of a font and font size is very important when choosing this color for web elements.
Fashion Accessory
In fashion, ultramarine can be used in accessories like scarves or jewelry to add a pop of color to an outfit. Due to its boldness, it is best used in smaller doses. For example, a dark ultramarine clutch with golden details could be a stand-out piece for evening wear. It can also be incorporated as a secondary color in patterns, especially when paired with lighter colors to create a striking contrast. The color goes well with warm and neutral colors. Using it as a solid block color for outfits might be too dominant and overwhelming.
Interior Accent Wall
In interior design, ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere in rooms such as bedrooms or studies. It can be applied on accent walls, which act as the central visual point of the room. Ultramarine pairs well with both warm and cold colors, and with shades of white, ivory or beige for a contrasting look. It can also be used in textiles such as throws and cushions. Consider the lighting conditions, as the color appears darker in dimmer lighting, so add lighter elements to create a balance.