Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #1F00A3, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and captivating shade of blue. Ultramarine is derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its historical origin as a pigment sourced from lapis lazuli imported from Asia. Historically, it was highly prized, often more valuable than gold. Today, synthetic ultramarine offers a more accessible alternative, retaining its rich and vibrant character. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, serenity, and sophistication. Its wavelength is around 460-482 nm. It is often associated with depth, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice for branding and design projects.
The color #1F00A3, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents certain accessibility considerations for web design. Its dark nature means that sufficient contrast is crucial when pairing it with text or other interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) against its background. Lighter colors like white, light gray, or pale yellow would generally provide adequate contrast. It's essential to avoid using this color as a background for large blocks of text unless paired with a very light foreground color. Also, interactive elements like buttons or links should have clear visual cues beyond just color to ensure usability for users with color vision deficiencies. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in verifying compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3f51b5
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the richness of ultramarine while offering improved contrast when used with darker text.
- #5c6bc0
A more desaturated blue that provides a softer feel and is easier on the eyes when used for larger areas.
- #283593
A vibrant, yet accessible blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
Applications
Web Design for Luxury Brands
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, lends itself well to creating a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere in website design. It's particularly effective in headers, footers, or as a background for call-to-action sections, evoking a sense of trust and stability. When used sparingly as an accent color, it can highlight key information or guide the user's eye towards important elements. The deep blue hue also suggests trustworthiness, making it suitable for finance or banking websites. Additionally, Ultramarine can be used in combination with white, gold, or silver to enhance its luxurious effect.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, Ultramarine can add a touch of elegance and drama to a room. It's a perfect choice for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a focal point that draws the eye. When used in upholstery or textiles, it can bring a sense of depth and richness to the space. Ultramarine pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. It also works well with natural materials like wood and stone. In fashion, Ultramarine can be used to add sophistication to an outfit. It can be used as a statement color for a dress or suit, or as an accent color for accessories like scarves or handbags.
Branding and Marketing Materials
Ultramarine offers a unique and striking choice for branding and marketing materials. Its depth and vibrancy can help a brand stand out and create a memorable impression. Consider using ultramarine in logo design, packaging, and promotional materials to convey a sense of sophistication, trustworthiness, and creativity. To maximize the impact, pair it strategically with complementary colors and incorporate design elements that resonate with your target audience. This can enhance brand recognition and foster a strong connection with your customer base.