Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #210394, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the rare and expensive mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment used in Renaissance paintings. Its name, meaning "beyond the sea," reflects its origin from pigments imported into Europe from Asia. In modern color theory, ultramarine is valued for its depth and richness, often associated with concepts like wisdom, trust, and stability. It is frequently used in branding and design to evoke feelings of confidence and reliability. The color's versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from digital interfaces to traditional art forms. The use of ultramarine brings a touch of luxury, timelessness, and sophistication to any creative project. Its calming and dependable hue makes it a great choice for any design.
The color #210394, a deep ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges primarily due to its low luminance. When used as a foreground color on a white background, the contrast ratio is significantly below the WCAG recommended levels for both normal and large text. This means that users with visual impairments may find it difficult to read text displayed in this color. To improve accessibility, it's essential to pair this color with a much lighter background, such as a pale yellow or a very light gray. Alternatively, consider using #210394 as a background color with white or very light-colored text. Implementing these strategies will ensure that your content is accessible to a broader audience, including those with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color combinations for optimal readability and usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33299f
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast against light backgrounds.
- #140066
A darker shade that can be used for accents and highlights without compromising readability on light backgrounds.
- #290baf
A more saturated blue that provides a vibrant alternative while still maintaining a sense of depth.
Applications
Web Design and Branding
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep hue, is an excellent choice for creating a sense of sophistication and depth in web design. It can be used for website headers and footers to establish a strong visual foundation. Furthermore, this color works well for call-to-action buttons, drawing the user's attention and encouraging engagement. In branding, ultramarine communicates trust and reliability, making it suitable for financial institutions, tech companies, and educational organizations. The color evokes a sense of calm authority.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine serves as a striking and versatile color. It is a popular choice for evening wear, adding a touch of elegance and drama to gowns and cocktail dresses. Ultramarine accessories, such as scarves and handbags, can add a pop of color to any outfit. It is also suitable for sportswear, swimwear, and activewear where its calming and dependable presence evokes confidence. The color is easily paired with neutrals like beige, grey, white, and black, or brighter shades like gold, orange, yellow or pink to create a unique aesthetic.
Interior Design and Home Decor
Ultramarine is a powerful tool for interior designers seeking to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to add depth and visual interest. In home decor, ultramarine can be incorporated through textiles such as throw pillows, curtains, and rugs. The color pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a balanced and harmonious space. Ultramarine also complements metallic accents, such as gold or silver, for a touch of luxury. Its calming characteristics make it suitable for meditation rooms and personal spaces where relaxation is key.