Cerulean
General Information about Cerulean
Cerulean, represented by the hexadecimal color code #008EE6, is a distinct and vibrant shade of blue. It is characterized by its medium saturation and moderate brightness, placing it between a pure blue and a cyan. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 55.7% green, and 90.2% blue. The CMYK color model values are 100% cyan, 38% magenta, 0% yellow, and 9.8% black. The color's name, Cerulean, is derived from the Latin word "caeruleus," meaning dark blue, blue, or sky-blue. Cerulean is often associated with feelings of calmness, serenity, and inspiration. It is used widely across various mediums, including web design, graphic design, fashion, and interior decoration.
The hex color #008EE6, also known as Cerulean, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively low luminance value requires careful attention to color contrast. When using this color for text, it's essential to ensure sufficient contrast against the background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools are readily available to check the contrast ratio between foreground and background colors. Using a lighter color for text on a #008EE6 background, or a darker color as a background for #008EE6 text, can improve readability. Consideration should also be given to users with visual impairments, who may have difficulty distinguishing between colors with low contrast. Providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or text labels, can further enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33a1fd
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability without significantly altering the overall aesthetic.
- #006bb3
A darker shade that can be used for text or elements requiring stronger visual emphasis, ensuring sufficient contrast and legibility.
- #a0d2eb
A muted color which is less vibrant than cerulean, provides a calming effect and works well as a background color.
Applications
Website Design
Cerulean is a popular choice for website headers and banners, providing a visually appealing introduction to the site. Its vibrant nature can capture attention while maintaining a professional look. Paired with white or light gray text, it offers good readability and helps establish a strong brand identity. In user interface design, Cerulean can be effectively used for primary buttons and interactive elements, guiding users and highlighting key actions. Its association with trust and reliability makes it suitable for websites in the finance, technology, and healthcare sectors.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean can be used to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, bathrooms, or living rooms, especially when paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige. As an accent color, it can be incorporated through throw pillows, artwork, or decorative accessories. Cerulean walls can evoke a sense of spaciousness and serenity, while darker shades can add depth and sophistication. It is also suitable for exteriors.
Fashion
Cerulean is often featured in fashion, particularly in spring and summer collections. Its bright and cheerful hue is ideal for dresses, tops, and swimwear. It can be paired with complementary colors like coral or yellow for a bold and vibrant look, or with neutral colors like navy or black for a more sophisticated style. As an accent color, it can be used in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry, adding a pop of color to any outfit. Cerulean is popular as an eye shadow color.