Cerulean Blue
About Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1C4CCA, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility and depth. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with the sky and ocean. This particular shade has a slightly muted quality, which makes it versatile for various design applications. The hex code #1C4CCA translates to a combination of red, green, and blue light in specific proportions. In the RGB color model, it consists of 11.0% red, 28.2% green, and 80.0% blue. This combination creates a cool and calming effect, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to inspire trust and stability. Cerulean Blue is often used in corporate branding, web design, and interior decorating. This color has a rich history and has been used in art and design for centuries.
The hex color #1C4CCA, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white is relatively low, meaning that text or elements using this color on a white background may be difficult for users with visual impairments to read. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG AA standards. Therefore, when using #1C4CCA for text, consider pairing it with a lighter color to ensure sufficient contrast. For background applications, be mindful of the foreground elements and their readability. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color pairings for optimal accessibility. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information, as colorblind users might miss it. Use additional cues such as text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity. Proper semantic HTML and ARIA attributes can also improve the accessibility of elements using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #003399
A darker shade of blue that can be used as a complementary color or for elements that require high contrast.
- #2e5cb8
A more vibrant blue alternative for designs needing a pop of color while maintaining a professional aesthetic.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue (#1C4CCA) can be used in website headers and navigation bars to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its calming yet authoritative presence makes it suitable for businesses in the finance, technology, and education sectors. For example, a financial institution might use this color in its website's main navigation to convey stability and reliability. Further uses include call to action buttons to guide users and emphasize actions, or as an element in infographics to present data, and highlight key details in a visually appealing manner. Utilizing Cerulean Blue sparingly can prevent the design from feeling overwhelming, making it ideal for backgrounds or accents that require a sophisticated touch.
Fashion and Beauty
In the fashion industry, Cerulean Blue (#1C4CCA) is a versatile color that can be used in various applications, from clothing to accessories. It can create a sense of calm and sophistication, making it suitable for both casual and formal wear. This color works well for dresses, shirts, and even accessories like scarves or handbags. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, as well as complementary colors like coral or yellow. When designing apparel, Cerulean Blue can evoke feelings of confidence and trustworthiness, making it ideal for professional attire or elegant evening wear. The depth and richness of this shade also makes it a solid choice for branding and packaging in the beauty industry, and can be incorporated for cosmetic products such as eyeliners, eyeshadows and mascaras.
Interior Design
Cerulean Blue (#1C4CCA) evokes feelings of serenity, stability, and sophistication. It works well in spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices. It can be used as an accent color on walls, furniture, or decor, creating a focal point in the room. Additionally, it pairs well with other colors like white, gray, and wood tones, and also pops when paired with shades of yellow or coral. When using Cerulean Blue in interior design, it is important to consider the overall lighting and ambiance of the space. It can create a calming and inviting atmosphere, making it suitable for spaces where relaxation and focus are desired.