Cerulean
General Information about Cerulean
Cerulean, represented by the hexadecimal color code #00A0E6, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue, reminiscent of the clear sky or the deep ocean. It is located in the cyan-blue region of the color spectrum. This color is often associated with tranquility, clarity, and creativity. In color psychology, blue is known to evoke feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. Cerulean's brightness makes it a popular choice for designs that aim to capture attention while maintaining a sense of professionalism. The color is often used in branding, web design, and marketing materials to convey trustworthiness and innovation. Its versatility allows it to be combined effectively with various other colors, such as whites, grays, and complementary shades, to create visually appealing compositions. Cerulean's unique blend of vibrancy and serenity makes it a favored choice across many creative fields.
The hex color #00A0E6, also known as Cerulean, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. When used as a background color, it requires careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between the text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Lighter shades of gray, white, or yellow would be suitable foreground colors to enhance readability. It is essential to use online contrast checkers to verify compliance. Additionally, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements; supplement it with text labels, icons, or ARIA attributes to provide context for users with visual impairments or color blindness. Also be aware of flashing with this color, as it may cause seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #008ac5
A slightly darker shade of blue that still provides a similar aesthetic but with potentially better contrast against white text.
- #ADD8E6
A lighter, pastel blue that can be used for backgrounds or accents where a softer, less intense blue is desired.
- #607D8B
A desaturated blue-gray that offers a more neutral and subtle alternative, suitable for situations where a less vibrant color is preferred.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean (#00A0E6) is perfect for website headers and navigation bars, creating a visually appealing and professional look. Its brightness draws attention, making key sections stand out. When combined with white or light-gray text, it ensures readability and accessibility, enhancing the overall user experience. This color can also be used for buttons and call-to-action elements, encouraging user engagement and interaction. Using it sparingly throughout the site helps maintain a consistent design language.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean can be used as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white. Consider using it for throw pillows, wall art, or decorative accessories to add a touch of sophistication and personality. Its association with the sky and sea evokes feelings of tranquility and openness, making it ideal for creating relaxing spaces.
Fashion and Graphic Design
Cerulean can be incorporated into fashion for both casual and formal wear. It's suitable for dresses, shirts, scarves, and accessories, providing a pop of color without being overwhelming. Cerulean complements various skin tones and can be styled with neutral-colored clothing for a balanced look. In graphic design, Cerulean can be used for logos, posters, and branding materials to convey feelings of innovation, trust, and clarity, and can be combined with white or lighter shades for visual impact.