Cerulean Blue
General Information
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #214CBD, is a medium-dark shade of blue that falls within the blue color family. This color is a blend of blue and a hint of green, creating a slightly cyan-leaning hue. It is named after the color of the sky on a clear day, and it evokes feelings of tranquility, calmness, and stability. In the RGB color model, #214CBD consists of 13.96% red, 29.8% green, and 79.61% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 82.44% cyan, 62.51% magenta, 0% yellow, and 20.39% black. Cerulean Blue is often associated with trust, security, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and websites. Its hex code can be used for digital applications and translated into other color models for different media.
The color #214CBD, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white is approximately 4.1:1, which meets the WCAG AA standard for normal text but falls short for larger text and user interface components, requiring a contrast ratio of 3:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. When used as text on a white background, individuals with moderate visual impairments may find it somewhat difficult to read. For better accessibility, consider using this color with lighter shades of gray or off-white backgrounds to enhance contrast, or darken the color slightly to reach the requested contrast ratio. When using #214CBD for interactive elements, make sure to incorporate secondary cues like borders or icons to make sure the elements are understandable for everyone. Additionally, providing alternative text or descriptions for images or elements using this color can improve accessibility for users with screen readers.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #193ca6
A darker shade that can be used as a foreground color on lighter backgrounds for improved accessibility.
- #4682b4
A more desaturated blue that may be easier on the eyes for prolonged viewing.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cerulean Blue can be used for buttons, links, and other interactive elements to draw the user's attention. It evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for financial or corporate websites. Its vibrancy makes it a good choice for call-to-action buttons, especially when paired with complementary colors like yellow or orange. However, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with the background for accessibility. The color can also be used for charts and graphs to represent data clearly and engagingly. It is often used to highlight important insights in comparison with other data series.
Fashion
In fashion, Cerulean Blue can be used as a statement color in clothing or accessories. It is versatile enough to be paired with neutral colors like gray, white, or black, or with complementary colors like coral or orange for a bolder look. It is often seen in casual wear such as jeans, t-shirts, and sweaters. Cerulean Blue accessories like scarves, handbags, and shoes can add a pop of color to an outfit. The color is often associated with summer and the ocean, making it a popular choice for swimwear and beachwear.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can be used as an accent color to create a calming and serene atmosphere. It can be used in bedrooms, bathrooms, or living rooms to evoke feelings of relaxation and tranquility. It pairs well with natural materials like wood, stone, and cotton. Cerulean Blue can be incorporated through wall paint, furniture, or decorative accessories like cushions, curtains, and rugs. It is often used in coastal-themed interiors to mimic the color of the sea and sky. The color is great to make rooms feel more spacious.