Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
The hex color #1E4FC8, commonly known as Cerulean Blue, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue. It sits comfortably within the blue color family, exhibiting a balance between depth and brightness. Cerulean blue is often associated with feelings of serenity, calmness, and expansiveness, reminiscent of a clear sky or tranquil ocean. In color theory, it's located between cyan and a slightly deeper, more saturated blue. This particular hue is created by blending red, green, and blue light at specific intensities, resulting in a unique chromatic expression. Its use in design and art can evoke a sense of openness, creativity, and trust, making it a popular choice across various applications. Cerulean blue is a color that can capture attention and evoke emotion.
The hex color #1E4FC8, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively low luminance value necessitates careful attention to color contrast. When used as a foreground color, it requires a light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially 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 to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Using online contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information; supplement with text labels or icons to ensure usability for colorblind users. Thoughtful application of this vibrant blue can enhance design while maintaining inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #6495ed
A lighter, more pastel blue that is easier on the eyes and provides better contrast against dark text.
- #00008b
A darker, more saturated blue that provides excellent contrast when used as a background color behind light text.
- #778899
A muted blue-gray that offers a sophisticated and calming alternative, suitable for backgrounds or text.
Applications
User Interface Design
In user interface (UI) design, cerulean blue can be used for primary buttons, links, or accent elements to draw attention and indicate interactivity. However, ensure that the color contrast is sufficient against the background to meet accessibility standards. It is also a suitable color for data visualization, as it can be easily distinguished from other colors in charts and graphs. Cerulean blue can be used to create a calming and trustworthy atmosphere, making it suitable for applications related to finance, healthcare, or education.
Fashion and Interior Design
Cerulean blue is often used in fashion to evoke a sense of calm, sophistication, and trust. It works well in both casual and formal wear. In interior design, cerulean blue can be used to create a calming and inviting space, particularly in bedrooms and bathrooms. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. This allows designers to incorporate the hue to add pops of color or create an overall soothing ambiance. It is a versatile color that can be used to create a variety of moods and styles.
Institutional Content
Cerulean blue can be used to establish a sense of serenity, reliability, and credibility. These qualities are helpful when designing content related to institutional topics such as: information and technology, scientific research, banking services, government and politics, or education and training. The color works well with minimalist design.