Cerulean
About Cerulean (#009CD6)
Cerulean, represented by the hex code #009CD6, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of serenity and expansiveness, reminiscent of a clear sky or a tranquil ocean. This vibrant yet calming hue belongs to the cyan-blue color family and is characterized by its balanced blend of blue and green undertones. Cerulean is widely appreciated for its versatility and ability to create a sense of harmony and balance in various design applications. Its presence can be both refreshing and invigorating, making it a popular choice for conveying trust, stability, and sophistication. The color's name originates from the Latin word "caeruleus," meaning "dark blue," further highlighting its historical significance and enduring appeal. Cerulean's unique qualities make it a valuable asset in diverse creative fields, from web design to fine art.
The hex color #009CD6, also known as Cerulean, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white backgrounds is approximately 3.7:1, which falls short of the WCAG AA standard of 4.5:1 for normal text. This means that individuals with moderate visual impairments may find it difficult to read text displayed in this color against a white background. To improve accessibility, consider using a darker shade of blue or pairing it with a darker background. Alternatively, increasing the font size or weight can enhance readability. When using #009CD6 for interactive elements like buttons or links, providing clear visual cues such as underlines or borders is crucial to ensure that users can easily identify them. Thorough testing with accessibility tools is recommended to validate the color's compliance with accessibility guidelines and ensure a positive user experience for all users, including those with disabilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0077b3
A slightly darker shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #66c2ff
A lighter shade of blue that can be used for backgrounds or accents without overpowering the main content.
- #0080ff
A more saturated blue that can draw attention to key elements on the page.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cerulean (#009CD6) can be employed to create a sense of trust and reliability, making it suitable for websites in the financial or healthcare sectors. It's vibrant yet calming nature also renders it appropriate for user interface elements, such as buttons and progress bars, where a visually appealing and informative design is desired. Furthermore, it can be effectively utilized to highlight important information or create visual hierarchy on a webpage, attracting the user's attention and guiding them through the content seamlessly. The specific shade of blue can convey a professional and modern feel, making it adaptable for various digital applications.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, Cerulean can be used as an accent color to bring a refreshing and calming atmosphere to a room. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, adding a pop of color without being overwhelming. Consider using it for accent walls, throw pillows, or decorative accessories to create a serene and inviting space. In fashion, Cerulean can be used to create stylish and eye-catching outfits. It looks great in dresses, tops, and accessories, and can be paired with other colors like white, black, or even contrasting colors like orange or yellow.
Data Visualization
Cerulean can be used in data visualization to represent different categories or data sets in charts and graphs. Its distinct hue allows for easy differentiation between data points, enhancing the clarity and interpretability of visual representations. This color is suitable for creating visually appealing and informative charts that effectively communicate complex data to a wide audience. Its balanced vibrancy ensures that the visualization is both engaging and accessible, making it a valuable tool for data analysis and reporting.