Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
The hexadecimal color code #234DB3 represents a shade of cerulean blue, characterized by its vibrant and calming qualities. In the RGB color model, this color is composed of 13.73% red, 30.2% green, and 70.2% blue. Its CMYK equivalent is approximately 80% cyan, 57% magenta, 0% yellow, and 30% black. Cerulean blue derives its name from the Latin word "caeruleus," which means "dark blue" or "sky blue." It's often associated with feelings of tranquility, serenity, and openness. The color's hex code provides a precise way to represent and reproduce it across various digital platforms, ensuring consistency in its appearance.
The color #234DB3, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility considerations, especially for web design. Its moderate luminance requires careful pairing with text colors to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #234DB3 as a background, it's advisable to use light-colored text like white or a very pale yellow to meet these contrast requirements. Conversely, if it is used for text, a very dark background color is necessary. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in verifying compliance. Additionally, consider users with color vision deficiencies; avoid relying solely on color to convey important information, and provide alternative cues such as text labels or icons. Thoughtful implementation ensures inclusivity and a better user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A slightly lighter shade of blue that can offer better contrast when used with darker text, enhancing readability.
- #000080
A darker shade of blue that provides a strong, authoritative feel and can be useful for creating a sense of depth or importance.
- #ADD8E6
A pastel blue that can be use for backgrounds.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, cerulean blue can be utilized to create visually appealing and engaging user interfaces. It is often used for primary buttons, headings, and navigational elements to draw the user's attention. However, when using this color, it's essential to consider its accessibility aspects. Specifically, ensure sufficient color contrast between the cerulean blue and the surrounding text or background elements. For instance, pairing it with a light yellow or white color for text can significantly improve readability. Consider using color contrast analysis tools to meet WCAG standards and enhance the overall user experience.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, cerulean blue can be employed to evoke a sense of tranquility and openness in spaces. It works particularly well in bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms, where a calm and relaxed atmosphere is desired. When incorporating cerulean blue, consider the natural lighting of the space and pair it with complementary colors to enhance the overall aesthetic. For example, using it as an accent wall color alongside neutral tones like beige or gray can create a balanced and visually pleasing effect. Furthermore, the choice of textures and materials can either enhance or detract from the desired effect.
Beauty and Fashion
Within the beauty and fashion industries, cerulean blue offers a versatile option for creating a range of looks. In makeup, it can be used for eyeshadows, eyeliners, or even as a subtle highlight to accentuate the eyes. When used in fashion, cerulean blue can be incorporated into clothing, accessories, or even footwear, to create a bold statement. When pairing this color with other elements, it's crucial to consider its hue and saturation to achieve a harmonious ensemble. For example, using it in a monochromatic color scheme or contrasting it with complementary hues can significantly impact the overall aesthetic.