Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #1E0C8C, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue that belongs to the blue color family. It is characterized by its rich, saturated tone, evoking feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Ultramarine is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and calmness. Historically, Ultramarine pigment was derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued and expensive pigment. Today, synthetic versions are widely available, offering the same vibrant color at a fraction of the cost. In color psychology, Ultramarine blue can promote a sense of trust and reliability, making it a popular choice for branding and corporate communications. The color's hexadecimal code is #1E0C8C, which can be used in digital design and web development to specify this exact shade of blue.
The hex color #1E0C8C, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning text and background contrast. When using this dark shade of blue as a background, it is crucial to choose a light text color like white or a very pale yellow to ensure readability. Conversely, if used as a text color, the background must be significantly lighter. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color may not meet these standards with many common lighter colors, so careful consideration and testing are essential. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Additionally, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; supplement it with text or icons to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies. Semantic HTML and ARIA roles should be implemented to improve accessibility for screen reader users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark text, enhancing readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray can serve as a versatile background color that complements #1E0C8C without causing visual strain.
- #333333
A very dark gray provides better contrast for light text than pure black, making it a more readable and accessible alternative.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#1E0C8C) can be used to create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. It is well-suited for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons where a sense of authority and trust is desired. When incorporating this color, ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements to maintain accessibility. Complementary colors or lighter shades of blue can be used to balance the richness of Ultramarine and prevent the design from feeling too heavy or overwhelming. This color is commonly used in finance or enterprise software applications.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be applied to create a focal point in a room, such as an accent wall or statement furniture piece. It pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, and white to create a balanced and harmonious space. The color evokes feelings of calmness and sophistication, making it suitable for bedrooms, studies, or living rooms. Using Ultramarine in smaller doses, such as through decorative accessories, can add depth and personality to a space without overwhelming it. It also fits well with gold or brass accents.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used to create elegant and bold looks. It is a versatile color that can be incorporated into dresses, suits, or accessories. When wearing Ultramarine, consider pairing it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray to create a balanced outfit. Alternatively, for a more daring look, pair it with complementary colors like yellow or orange. Ultramarine is often associated with sophistication and confidence, making it a great choice for formal events or professional settings.