Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
The hex color #1D4DB9, also known as Cerulean Blue, is a deep and rich shade of blue, often associated with trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 11.4% red, 30.2% green, and 72.5% blue. This particular shade of blue falls within the broader category of blue hues, typically perceived as calming and authoritative. Cerulean Blue has been widely used across various industries, including branding, web design, and fashion. Its hex code representation provides a standardized way to define and reproduce this specific color accurately across different platforms and devices. Understanding the color properties of #1D4DB9 can help designers and artists effectively incorporate it into their projects to achieve desired aesthetic and psychological effects. The color's association with calmness and authority makes it a popular choice for corporate branding and website designs aimed at projecting reliability and expertise.
The hex color #1D4DB9, a shade of Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance value (approximately 0.15) necessitates careful consideration of color contrast, especially when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. When pairing this color with text, it is highly recommended to use light-colored text (white or very light grays) to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using darker text colors against #1D4DB9 could render the content illegible for many users, including those with low vision or color deficiencies. It's also important to test color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools to verify compliance with WCAG standards. Avoid using this color for critical information or calls to action without ensuring adequate contrast. Providing alternative styling options (e.g., high-contrast themes) can further enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366CC
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against dark backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2E86AB
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements without sacrificing readability.
- #6082B6
A desaturated blue that provides a more subtle and calming effect, suitable for backgrounds or decorative elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #1D4DB9 can serve as a primary color for website headers, navigation bars, or call-to-action buttons, especially for websites targeting corporate or tech-savvy audiences. However, due to its dark nature, ample whitespace and contrasting text colors (like white or a very light yellow) are essential to maintain readability and visual appeal. This color also works well for creating a professional and trustworthy brand image. When using it as a background color, ensure that interactive elements such as links and buttons have clear visual cues to differentiate them from the background.
Interior Design
In interior design, #1D4DB9 can be used as an accent color in rooms to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, white, and beige. Consider using it for painting an accent wall or incorporating it into furniture upholstery or decorative items. Be mindful not to overuse it in small spaces as it may make the room feel darker. Introduce lighter colors or metallic accents to balance the intensity of the blue and brighten the space.
Fashion
In fashion, #1D4DB9 can be used as a statement color for clothing items such as dresses, suits, or jackets. Its richness and depth make it suitable for creating elegant and sophisticated looks. It complements well with metallic accessories in gold or silver. It is also a good choice for formal wear and can be paired with neutral colors or contrasting shades like orange or yellow for a more playful look. When incorporating this color into an outfit, ensure that the rest of the outfit complements the blue.