Cerulean Blue
General Information
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #194BCD, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility and sophistication. It is located in the blue-violet segment of the color spectrum, exhibiting a harmonious blend of cyan and azure hues. This color derives its name from cerulean, the Latin word for sky, aptly capturing its resemblance to the clear, deep blue of a cloudless sky. Its hex code, #194BCD, breaks down into its RGB (Red, Green, Blue) components: Red at 10%, Green at 29%, and Blue at 80% intensity. Its wide use is driven by its versatile nature, applicable across various design disciplines. The color has a distinct presence and psychological impact, often associated with calmness, peace, and reliability.
The hex color #194BCD, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility considerations, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A light background is generally recommended. Using tools to check color contrast ratios is essential to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Given its relatively low lightness value, pairing it with white or very light shades of yellow or green can provide adequate contrast. Conversely, using it with darker colors can make text difficult to read. The use of color alone to convey information should also be avoided; additional cues like text labels or icons should be provided to ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #6495ed
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while improving readability on white backgrounds.
- #1e90ff
A more saturated blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a webpage.
- #337ab7
A very similar blue but with improved color contrast with dark backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue is a popular choice for website headers and navigation bars, providing a professional and trustworthy feel. Its vibrant yet calming nature makes it suitable for tech companies, educational institutions, and businesses aiming to convey stability and innovation. It can be effectively used in buttons and links to guide users through the site while maintaining a cohesive visual experience. Furthermore, Cerulean Blue is often employed in data visualizations and charts to present information in an accessible and engaging manner.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can create a serene and inviting atmosphere. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms and bathrooms, promoting relaxation and tranquility. Its ability to reflect light can make smaller spaces feel more open and airy. It can be incorporated through wall paint, textiles, and decorative accessories, pairing harmoniously with neutral tones like white, gray, and beige. Accents of natural wood and metallic finishes can further enhance the elegance and sophistication of the space.
Fashion Industry
Cerulean Blue is a classic color that is popular in the fashion industry. It is a versatile colour, that can be used in formal wear, casual wear, outwear, and many more. The colour can be mixed and matched with many different colour styles.