Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2149B5, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility and serenity. It's a medium-dark hue, positioned between azure and sky blue, with a slight hint of cyan, making it a versatile color for various applications. In the RGB color model, #2149B5 is composed of 12.9% red, 28.6% green, and 71% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.82, 0.60, 0.00, 0.29. The color is often associated with clear skies and calm seas, embodying a sense of peace and openness. Cerulean blue has been used across art, fashion, and design to represent reliability and stability. Understanding the properties and cultural associations of #2149B5 allows designers and artists to use it effectively.
The hex color #2149B5, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility considerations, particularly in web design. When used as a background color, it necessitates careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Pairing #2149B5 with lighter shades of yellow, white, or light gray can achieve this. Conversely, using dark text colors like black or dark gray on a #2149B5 background would likely fail accessibility standards due to insufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help designers evaluate and adjust color combinations to meet accessibility requirements, ensuring content is usable by individuals with visual impairments. Also keep in mind that colorblind users might perceive this color differently.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast when used as a background.
- #4682b4
A more muted tone, useful when a less vibrant blue is desired.
- #007bff
This shade of blue is close to cerulean but offers a bit more vibrancy, making it suitable for highlighting elements or creating a focal point.
Applications
Website Design
Cerulean Blue (#2149B5) can be used to create a calm and trustworthy website. It is often applied in the headers and footers of the page to make an excellent navigation structure. It evokes feelings of serenity and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in the financial, healthcare, or technology sectors. Use it to highlight important information or as a background for calls to action to draw the user's eye. Consider the contrast ratio with text and other elements to ensure readability and accessibility. For example, combine with white or light gray for text and use it for buttons.
Fashion Design
Cerulean blue can be incorporated in fashion to add a pop of color. It works well for dresses, tops, and accessories, especially in spring and summer collections. Cerulean blue complements neutral tones like beige, gray, and white, and can be paired with brighter colors like coral or yellow for a vibrant look. It's often used in swimwear and beachwear due to its association with the ocean and sky. When selecting fabrics, consider lightweight and breathable materials like cotton or linen for a comfortable feel.
Interior Design
For interior design, #2149B5 can be applied as an accent color to add depth and visual interest to a room. It is well-suited for bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms, where it can create a relaxing atmosphere. Use it on throw pillows, curtains, or artwork to complement neutral wall colors like white, gray, or beige. Pair with natural materials like wood and stone to balance the coolness of the blue. Consider using different shades of blue to add dimension and create a cohesive color scheme. In a workspace or study, cerulean blue can promote focus and creativity.