Cerulean
General Information about Cerulean
Cerulean, represented by the hexadecimal color code #009DD6, is a vibrant and eye-catching shade of blue. It is often associated with the sky and the ocean, evoking feelings of tranquility and expansiveness. In the RGB color model, #009DD6 consists of 0% red, 61.6% green, and 83.9% blue. This particular combination creates a bright and lively hue that is widely used in various applications, including web design, graphic design, and even fashion. Cerulean's versatility stems from its ability to convey both calmness and energy, depending on the context. Its relatively high saturation makes it stand out, while its blue undertones provide a sense of stability and trustworthiness. The name 'Cerulean' is derived from the Latin word 'caeruleus,' meaning 'dark blue'.
The hex color #009DD6, also known as Cerulean, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white text is approximately 2.2:1, which is below the WCAG's minimum recommendation of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This means that using white text on a Cerulean background can be difficult for users with visual impairments to read. Conversely, when used with black text, the contrast ratio is around 9.5:1, providing excellent readability. Therefore, to ensure optimal accessibility, it's essential to use #009DD6 with dark text or to choose a lighter shade of cerulean for backgrounds used in combination with white text. Ensuring sufficient contrast is crucial for users with low vision or color blindness, helping them to perceive content more clearly. This color is perceived as vibrant and energetic, but its accessibility must be carefully considered in design to ensure an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0077b3
A slightly darker shade offers improved contrast against white text, enhancing readability.
- #33b5e5
A lighter shade maintains the cerulean hue while providing better contrast when used as a background for darker text.
- #5f9ea0
A muted version of cerulean provides a calmer aesthetic and better readability against both light and dark text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cerulean can be used for call-to-action buttons to draw attention. The vibrant hue captures the user's eye and encourages interaction. However, it's important to ensure the button text has sufficient contrast. It can also be used for website headers and footers to create a visually appealing interface. This color evokes trust and professionalism, making it a good choice for businesses in the tech and finance sectors. Its brightness works well for highlighting important sections of a page, guiding the user's focus.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean can be used as an accent color to brighten up a room. It works well in spaces where you want to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere, such as bathrooms or bedrooms. Cerulean pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige. Consider using it for wall paint, cushions, or decorative items. The color's association with water and sky makes it a good choice for creating a serene and inviting environment. Avoid overusing it, as too much of the color can be overwhelming.
Fashion
In fashion, Cerulean can be used for clothing items such as dresses, shirts, or accessories. It's a versatile color that works well for both casual and formal wear. Pair it with neutral colors like black, white, or navy for a sophisticated look. For a bolder statement, combine it with complementary colors like orange or coral. Cerulean is often associated with creativity and innovation, making it a popular choice for designers. Its vibrant hue can add a pop of color to any outfit, making the wearer stand out from the crowd.