Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hex code #234FC4, is a captivating shade of blue often associated with serenity, stability, and trustworthiness. It sits between azure and sky blue on the color spectrum, offering a harmonious blend of both. Cerulean blue draws its name from ceruleum, a Latin word used to describe the deep blue color of the sky. The color is often linked with feelings of tranquility and peace, making it a popular choice in various design applications. In color psychology, blue is generally associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth and heaven. Therefore, cerulean blue can evoke a sense of security and reliability. Due to its calming nature, this color is frequently used in contexts where trust and stability are desired, such as financial institutions, healthcare, and government agencies.
The hex color #234fc4, or Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its relatively low luminance (brightness) means that it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios against background colors. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. When used as text, #234fc4 should ideally be paired with very light backgrounds (e.g., white or very pale yellow) to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using it on darker backgrounds could render text illegible for many users. In user interface design, it's advisable to use contrast checkers to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Also, it is important to provide alternative cues, such as icons or labels, to support users who may have difficulty distinguishing colors. When used for decorative purposes, the contrast requirements are less stringent, but careful consideration should still be given to the overall visual harmony and usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4f86c6
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against dark backgrounds, making it more accessible for text and UI elements.
- #1a369f
A darker shade of blue that provides improved contrast against light backgrounds, ideal for headings and important text.
- #3b63d9
A more saturated blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements without compromising readability.
Applications
Financial applications
Cerulean Blue can be used to create a calm and trustworthy environment. It can be applied on websites and apps related to finance, insurance, or health to build confidence. The color evokes feelings of stability and security, which is crucial for user engagement in these industries. By using this color in the interface, the website or app inspires trust and creates a user-friendly platform.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Cerulean Blue can be used as an accent color in clothing designs, especially for spring and summer collections. It can be combined with neutral colors like white, beige, or gray to create a fresh and sophisticated look. The color also looks nice on swimwear and beachwear. Cerulean Blue is a color that inspires calmness and can give a summery vibe to clothing, making it a perfect choice for warm seasons.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue is a versatile color that can be used to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere in living spaces. It works well in bedrooms and bathrooms, promoting relaxation and tranquility. The color can be applied on walls, furniture, or decorative items like curtains and cushions. Combined with white or light gray, it creates a serene and spacious feel, making it a great choice for creating a relaxing environment at home.