Cerulean Blue
General Information
Cerulean Blue, with the hexadecimal code #1F51BE, is a captivating shade of blue that lies between cyan and azure on the color spectrum. It is characterized by its moderate saturation and medium brightness, giving it a calming yet vibrant appearance. This color is often associated with the sky and sea, evoking feelings of tranquility, stability, and inspiration. In color psychology, blue is known to represent trust, loyalty, and wisdom, making Cerulean Blue a popular choice for brands and designs aiming to convey these qualities. The color's unique blend of lightness and depth also allows for versatile applications, ranging from web design to fashion and interior decoration. Cerulean blue can also be mixed in paints by combining blue and a touch of green.
The color #1F51BE, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to pair it with text that has sufficient contrast to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given the darkness of Cerulean Blue, lighter text colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of yellow or green would be more appropriate choices to meet these standards. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can be used to assess the contrast ratio and ensure compliance. Using this color for critical interface elements, such as buttons or links, also requires careful consideration of focus states and visual cues to ensure they are easily distinguishable. Proper use of ARIA attributes can further enhance the accessibility of elements using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4f86c6
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast with dark text, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can serve as a background color, providing a good contrast with both light and dark text.
- #3b71ca
A vibrant blue that captures some of the energy of cerulean, while providing a different feel.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue, #1F51BE, can be effectively used in website design to create a sense of trust and professionalism. It's particularly well-suited for header backgrounds or call-to-action buttons, especially when combined with complementary colors like a light orange or yellow. This combination can draw attention to important elements on the page without overwhelming the user. In user interface (UI) design, #1F51BE can provide a calming and reliable aesthetic, enhancing the overall user experience. When incorporating this color, ensure the design maintains sufficient color contrast ratios for accessibility, especially for text and interactive elements.
Fashion
In fashion, Cerulean Blue offers a sophisticated and versatile option. The color, #1F51BE, can be used for dresses, shirts, or accent pieces to add a touch of elegance and calm. It pairs well with neutrals such as gray, white, and black, as well as contrasting colors like coral or mustard yellow. Consider using Cerulean Blue in silk or satin fabrics to enhance its richness. This color can also be incorporated into accessories like scarves and handbags to create a cohesive and stylish look. The hue's cool undertones make it particularly flattering for individuals with cool skin tones.
Interior Design
Cerulean Blue can be used in interior design to create a soothing and calming atmosphere, evoking feelings of tranquility and stability. It is effective in bedrooms, bathrooms, or home offices where a serene environment is desired. Consider using this color as an accent wall or for decorative elements like cushions, curtains, or rugs. The hue can also be paired with natural materials like wood, stone, or linen to create a balanced and harmonious space. Adding touches of metallic finishes like silver or chrome can further enhance the sophistication of the design.