Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
The hex color #1C4EBA, also known as Cerulean Blue, is a deep and calming shade of blue. It's a color often associated with the sky and the sea, evoking feelings of serenity, peace, and stability. In color psychology, blue is often linked to trust, loyalty, and wisdom, making it a popular choice for branding and corporate identities. The color #1C4EBA falls within the blue color family, exhibiting a slightly muted and sophisticated tone compared to brighter blues. It's a versatile color that can be used in a wide range of applications, from web design to interior decorating. Understanding the nuances of this color can significantly enhance the visual impact of a project.
The color #1C4EBA, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using a very light background color like white (#FFFFFF) might not meet these contrast requirements, potentially making content difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #1C4EBA with very light yellows, oranges, or greens. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools is essential to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive user experience. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of focus or state, and provide alternative visual cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366CC
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while retaining a similar aesthetic.
- #003399
A darker shade of blue that ensures higher contrast, particularly useful for text elements.
- #2962FF
A more vibrant blue, suitable for highlighting interactive elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, cerulean blue can be used to create a sense of trust and stability. It's often employed in the headers and footers of websites to establish a professional and reliable aesthetic. The color works especially well for businesses in the finance, technology, or healthcare industries. Given its slightly muted tone, it's essential to pair it with complementary colors and ensure adequate contrast for readability. It can also be used for buttons and interactive elements to guide the user's attention.
Interior Design
In interior design, cerulean blue can bring a calming and serene atmosphere to a room. It's well-suited for bedrooms and bathrooms, where a relaxed environment is desired. The color can be used on walls, furniture, or decorative accents. When using cerulean blue, consider incorporating natural elements like wood and plants to add warmth and texture to the space. Accents of gold or copper can also enhance the sophistication of the design.
Fashion
In fashion, cerulean blue is a versatile color that can be incorporated into various styles. It pairs well with neutrals like white, gray, and black, as well as bolder colors like yellow and orange. Cerulean blue can be used for dresses, shirts, pants, or accessories. In menswear, it can be used for shirts, sweaters, or jackets. It's important to consider the undertones of the color when pairing it with other colors to create a harmonious and balanced look.