Cerulean Blue
About Cerulean Blue
Cerulean blue, represented by the hex code #2254C4, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue often associated with the sky and sea. It's a popular color choice in various fields, including graphic design, web development, fashion, and interior design. The name 'cerulean' itself is derived from the Latin word 'caeruleus,' meaning 'dark blue' or 'sky-blue.' This color evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability, making it a versatile option for creating visually appealing and emotionally resonant designs. Its specific hue is achieved by a combination of red, green, and blue light at specific intensities, which can be further adjusted to produce different shades and tints of cerulean blue.
The hex color #2254C4, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively low luminance can pose challenges for users with visual impairments, particularly when used as text color. To ensure readability, it is crucial to maintain a sufficient contrast ratio against the background color, ideally adhering to WCAG guidelines for AA or AAA compliance. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. When used for interactive elements, like buttons or links, additional cues such as underlines or icons can help users perceive the interactive nature of the element, especially for those who may have difficulty distinguishing color alone. Providing alternative text descriptions for images or graphical elements using this color can also enhance accessibility for screen reader users. Proper semantic HTML usage is also critical for assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the cerulean feel but offers improved contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #003399
A darker shade for elements requiring higher visual prominence, ensuring readability and distinctiveness.
- #6699CC
A muted alternative that works well for backgrounds and subtle accents, reducing visual intensity while staying in the blue family.
Applications
Tech Company Website
Cerulean blue can be used as the primary color for a tech company's website. Its association with trust and innovation makes it suitable for branding and user interface elements. The color can also be incorporated into data visualizations to represent trends or insights in a clear and professional manner. Furthermore, cerulean blue can be implemented as a highlight color to draw attention to key features or calls to action, enhancing user engagement and overall website experience.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, cerulean blue can be used as a statement color for dresses, blouses, or accessories. Its versatility allows it to be paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or black for a sophisticated look, or with complementary colors like orange or yellow for a more vibrant and eye-catching ensemble. Cerulean blue can also be incorporated into patterns or prints to add depth and visual interest. Its calming yet stylish presence makes it a popular choice for both casual and formal wear.
Interior Design
Cerulean blue can be used to create a serene and calming atmosphere in a bedroom or living room. It works well as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items like pillows and curtains. Pairing it with soft textures and natural materials like wood and linen can enhance the room's overall sense of tranquility and comfort. Cerulean blue can also be used in bathrooms to evoke a sense of cleanliness and relaxation, especially when combined with white or light gray tiles.