Cerulean Blue
General Information about #1A4EBC
The hex color #1A4EBC, also known as Cerulean Blue, is a vibrant and cool-toned shade of blue. It is composed of 10.2% red, 30.6% green, and 73.7% blue. In the RGB color space, it is relatively balanced towards blue, giving it its characteristic hue. This color falls under the broader category of blue hues and is often associated with feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. It is commonly used in various design applications, including web design, graphic design, and interior design, to evoke these emotions. The color can also be defined in other color spaces, such as CMYK and HSL, each providing a different perspective on its composition.
The color #1A4EBC, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility considerations, particularly in web design. Its contrast ratio against a white background might not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for text readability, especially for smaller font sizes. To ensure inclusivity, it's crucial to pair this color with light text or backgrounds that provide sufficient contrast. For instance, using white (#FFFFFF) or a very light gray for text on a #1A4EBC background can improve readability. Conversely, avoid using dark text colors like black (#000000) as the contrast would be insufficient for many users, including those with visual impairments. Employing contrast checking tools during the design process is highly recommended to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Furthermore, consider the impact on users with color blindness, ensuring that color is not the only means of conveying important information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds.
- #003399
A darker shade for situations where a more subdued color is needed, while maintaining a blue hue.
- #4287f5
A lighter and brighter alternative that can be useful for creating a more vibrant interface, still preserving the original's chromaticity.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1A4EBC can be used for primary buttons, navigation bars, or as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other UI elements to meet accessibility standards. For example, using this color for a call-to-action button with white text can be effective, but smaller text sizes may require a lighter shade of blue or a darker background color. Consider using it for icons or graphical elements to maintain visual interest without compromising usability.
Graphic Design
In graphic design, this cerulean blue is often used to create a sense of trust and stability. It can be used in branding materials for businesses in the tech, finance, or healthcare industries. It can also be used in infographics or data visualizations to represent data in a clear and organized way. When using this color in graphic design, it's important to consider the overall color palette and ensure that the color works well with other colors in the design.
Interior Design
This shade of blue can be incorporated into interior spaces to induce calmness and focus. Consider using it as an accent wall color in a home office or study. When complementing the blue, use light-colored furniture or decor to brighten the space and prevent it from feeling too dark. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to create a sophisticated and balanced look. This color can also be used in textiles, such as curtains or throw pillows, to add a pop of color to a room.