Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean blue, represented by the hex code #2147c5, is a medium-dark shade of blue known for its association with the sky and the sea. It is a popular color in art, design, and fashion, often used to evoke feelings of tranquility, peace, and serenity. In color psychology, blue is generally associated with trust, stability, and intelligence, making cerulean blue a suitable choice for brands and organizations aiming to convey these qualities. Its name is derived from the Latin word 'caeruleus', meaning dark blue, blue-green or sky-blue. This color sits between cyan and blue on the color wheel, offering a vibrant yet calming presence. The color has many variations and it can be seen in the sky, in many water sources as well as animals and minerals.
The hex color #2147c5, a deep cerulean blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web development. When used as a background color, it's essential to ensure sufficient contrast with the foreground text. A light-colored text, such as white or a very pale yellow, would be necessary to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. Using tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the contrast ratio is adequate, aiming for at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements like links or buttons, as users with color vision deficiencies might struggle to differentiate them. Supplement with additional visual cues like underlines or borders to enhance usability for all users. Proper alt text for images and labels for form elements are also crucial for screen reader users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4f86c6
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast with dark text, making it more accessible for a wider range of users.
- #e0e0e0
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color, ensuring high contrast with both light and dark text.
- #142d64
A darker shade of blue offering a sophisticated feel while potentially providing sufficient contrast when paired with lighter elements.
Applications
Brand Identity
Cerulean blue can be used as a primary brand color to convey trust, stability, and professionalism. It's particularly suitable for companies in finance, technology, or healthcare, creating a sense of reliability and calm. The color can be applied to logos, website headers, and marketing materials to establish a strong brand identity. This evokes a feeling of trustworthiness, which is essential for financial and medical industries.
UI Design
In user interface design, #2147c5 can serve as an accent color for buttons, links, and other interactive elements. Its vibrancy can attract user attention, while the blue hue generally signals trustworthiness and reliability. Ensure sufficient contrast with the background to maintain accessibility standards. This color also pairs nicely with white for a modern and clean feel for interactive elements.
Fashion Design
In fashion, cerulean blue is a versatile color that can be used for both casual and formal wear. It complements a wide range of skin tones and can be paired with neutral colors like white, gray, and black for a sophisticated look. It is a classic color that is considered to be elegant, yet modern. It can be used for dresses, shirts, and accessories, and looks well on both men and women.