Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1B4FBB, is a medium-dark shade of blue with a calming and trustworthy feel. It is a popular choice in various fields, including web design, fashion, and interior decoration, owing to its versatility and aesthetic appeal. The color is composed of 10.6% red, 31% green, and 73.3% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:27, G:79, B:187. In the CMYK color space, the color is composed of C:85.56% M:57.75% Y:0% K:26.67%. Cerulean blue's wavelength is approximately 475 nm. It is often associated with tranquility, stability, and professionalism. Its name, 'Cerulean,' is derived from the Latin word 'caeruleus,' meaning 'dark blue' or 'sky blue.'
The hex color #1B4FBB, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its luminance value is relatively low, which means it might not provide sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability, particularly for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #1B4FBB as text color on a white background may not meet these standards. Therefore, it is essential to pair it with a very light color, such as white or very light yellow, to ensure proper contrast and readability. When used in interactive elements, such as buttons or links, make sure the color changes on hover or focus to provide clear visual feedback to users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366CC
A lighter shade of blue that improves contrast and readability, particularly for text on white backgrounds.
- #003399
A slightly darker shade that provides better contrast when used as a background color behind white text.
- #2E5CB8
This is a vibrant, yet accessible, alternative that maintains the essence of blue while enhancing readability.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue (#1B4FBB) can serve as a primary color in website designs aiming for a trustworthy and calming aesthetic. Its moderate saturation makes it suitable for backgrounds, call-to-action buttons, and interactive elements. In UI/UX design, it can be used to create a consistent and engaging user experience by highlighting key features and navigational elements. The color evokes a sense of stability and confidence, making it ideal for finance, technology, and healthcare websites where trust is paramount. Additionally, consider using lighter tints or shades of Cerulean Blue to enhance readability and accessibility, ensuring a user-friendly interface.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Cerulean Blue can be used as a base color for various outfits, ranging from casual wear to formal attire. It complements a wide range of skin tones and can be paired with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white for a sophisticated look. It also works well as an accent color in accessories such as scarves, handbags, and jewelry, adding a pop of color to an otherwise muted ensemble. When designing a collection around Cerulean Blue, consider using fabrics with varying textures to add depth and visual interest, such as silk, velvet, or denim. Incorporating metallic accents, like silver or gold, can elevate the overall aesthetic and make the color appear more luxurious.
Graphic and Interior Design
In interior design, cerulean blue can act as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a serene atmosphere. In graphic design, #1B4FBB can be used in logo design to convey trust and reliability, making it suitable for corporate branding materials. The color is ideal for use in brochures, posters, and digital advertisements to attract attention and communicate the brand's message effectively. It evokes a sense of calm and confidence, making it ideal for industries related to health, finance, and education.