Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hex code #224AC4, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and sophistication. It is located in the blue region of the color spectrum, possessing a moderate level of saturation and brightness. This color derives its name from the Latin word 'caeruleus,' which means 'dark blue' or 'sky blue.' Cerulean Blue is often associated with the sky and the sea, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to create a sense of peace and tranquility. In color psychology, blue is often linked to trust, loyalty, and wisdom, further enhancing the appeal of Cerulean Blue in various applications. It is widely used in web design, branding, and graphic design to communicate reliability and professionalism.
The hex color #224AC4, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents accessibility challenges due to its relatively low luminance. When used as text against a white background, it may not meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio, potentially causing readability issues 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 improve accessibility, consider using a lighter tint of Cerulean Blue or pairing it with a lighter background color. Alternatively, employing this color for larger graphic elements or as a highlight color, rather than for extensive text blocks, can mitigate accessibility concerns. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance and inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #6495ed
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #4682b4
A more vibrant blue that can be used for accent colors and highlights, adding visual interest without compromising accessibility.
- #87cefa
A brighter blue with a higher luminance value, which is a better choice when contrast is a major issue to avoid readability problems.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue, with its calming yet vibrant nature, is well-suited for website designs aiming to evoke trust and reliability, particularly in sectors like finance or technology. It can be employed for headings, call-to-action buttons, and background accents to create a professional and engaging user experience. The color can also be used in user interface elements, such as progress bars and navigation menus, enhancing the site's overall aesthetic appeal while maintaining a sense of clarity and usability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can bring a refreshing and sophisticated touch to living spaces. It works well in bedrooms and bathrooms, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The color can be incorporated through wall paint, textiles, and decorative accessories. Consider pairing it with neutral tones like gray or beige to balance its intensity and create a harmonious environment. Cerulean blue can also be combined with natural materials like wood and stone to enhance the space's organic feel.
Beauty and Makeup
Cerulean Blue can be used to create stunning, dramatic eye looks. An eyeshadow can be applied to the eyelids as a base color, for a vivid, elegant appearance, or used as an eyeliner instead of traditional black or brown eyeliners. When paired with complementary colors such as orange or gold, the effect is further enhanced, creating an eye-catching look suitable for special events or expressive everyday wear.