Cerulean
General Information
Cerulean, represented by the hexadecimal color code #009AE6, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue, often associated with the sky and the sea. It evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and openness. This particular shade of blue is located in the cyan-blue region of the color spectrum, possessing a moderate saturation and brightness. In the RGB color model, #009AE6 is composed of 0% red, 60.78% green, and 90.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 100% cyan, 33% magenta, 0% yellow, and 9% black. Its versatility allows it to be used in various design applications, from web design and branding to interior design and fashion. Cerulean's appealing nature makes it a preferred choice for conveying trustworthiness and creating visually pleasing designs.
The hex color #009AE6, also known as Cerulean, offers decent accessibility but requires careful consideration. With a relatively low luminance, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against both light and dark backgrounds to meet WCAG guidelines. When using this color for text, a lighter background (such as white or very pale shades of gray) is recommended to provide adequate contrast for readability. Conversely, if #009AE6 is used as a background color, opting for white or very light text can improve accessibility. Additionally, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or text decorations, to convey information for users who may have difficulty distinguishing colors. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools is essential to confirm compliance with accessibility standards and ensure a positive user experience for individuals with visual impairments. Remember that perceived contrast can vary, so user testing with diverse groups can further refine color choices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0077b3
A slightly darker shade of blue that still provides a similar aesthetic but with improved contrast on light backgrounds.
- #33b5e5
A lighter shade of blue that can be used for highlights or accents while maintaining a cohesive color scheme.
- #607d8b
A muted grayish-blue that offers a more subdued alternative while still retaining a calming and professional feel.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean, represented by #009AE6, can be utilized in website design to establish a calming and trustworthy atmosphere. It's particularly suitable for sites related to technology, healthcare, or finance, where conveying a sense of stability and professionalism is essential. As a primary color, it can be incorporated into the website's header, navigation bar, and call-to-action buttons. When paired with complementary colors like yellow or orange, it can draw attention to key elements while maintaining visual harmony. In user interface design, #009AE6 can also highlight interactive elements, such as buttons and links, while ensuring adequate color contrast for readability and accessibility.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, the hex color #009AE6, or Cerulean, can evoke feelings of tranquility and spaciousness, making it a versatile choice for various rooms. In bedrooms, it can be used on walls or bedding to create a serene and restful environment. In living rooms, it can be incorporated through accent pieces like throw pillows or artwork to add a pop of color and create a focal point. Moreover, Cerulean pairs well with neutral tones such as white, gray, and beige, allowing for a balanced and harmonious aesthetic. To add warmth, consider pairing it with natural materials like wood and plants.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, #009AE6 or cerulean, offers a versatile and appealing color choice for various clothing items and accessories. Due to its calming and refreshing qualities, cerulean can enhance clothing such as dresses, blouses, and casual shirts, and is more often found in the spring and summer collections. As an accent color, cerulean can add vibrancy to scarves, handbags, and jewelry, which is often paired with neutral colors like white, navy, and gray to create a balanced and elegant look. Cerulean accessories are particularly effective in complementing outfits with earth-toned clothing, making them stand out.