Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
The hexadecimal color #2358B3, also known as Cerulean Blue, is a shade of blue that exhibits a blend of cyan and azure tones. In the RGB color model, it consists of 13.73% red, 34.51% green, and 70.2% blue. It is often associated with feelings of tranquility, clarity, and reliability, which is why it's frequently used in corporate branding and user interface design. The color has a strong presence and is capable of evoking both a sense of calm and a sense of importance. Its spectral properties lie in the shorter wavelengths of the visible light spectrum, which contributes to its cool and refreshing feel. Cerulean blue is appreciated for its balance between the energetic and the serene, making it a versatile option across various applications. Its name comes from the color of a clear, deep blue sky.
The color #2358B3, a shade of cerulean blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its contrast ratio against white (#FFFFFF) is approximately 4.5:1, which meets the WCAG AA standard for normal text but falls short for large text (18pt or 14pt bold). When used for smaller text, ensure sufficient surrounding whitespace or a slightly lighter background color to enhance readability for users with low vision. For users with color vision deficiencies, avoid relying solely on this color to convey important information; use icons, text labels, or patterns in conjunction with the color to ensure clarity. Furthermore, provide options for users to customize color schemes, allowing them to adjust contrast levels to their individual needs. Consider the luminance contrast ratio against various shades of gray to ensure the color is usable in grayscale mode or when printed. Testing the color scheme with accessibility tools and user feedback is crucial to ensure an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4878c0
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability for users with visual impairments.
- #1a428a
A darker shade offering a stronger visual impact, suitable for elements requiring emphasis or prominence in the design.
- #5d8aaf
A more muted tone that provides a softer, less intense blue, suitable for backgrounds or secondary elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, cerulean blue is often used for primary buttons and interactive elements to draw attention and indicate action. Its calm yet engaging nature makes it suitable for interfaces aimed at productivity and communication. It can also be effectively used in headers and navigation bars to provide a sense of stability and trustworthiness. When paired with complementary colors, like a warm yellow or orange, it can create a balanced and visually appealing user experience. In dashboard design, the color is useful for representing data charts and progress bars.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, cerulean blue can be used for dresses or men's suiting. Accessorize it with silver or neutral tones to create a sophisticated look, or contrast with warmer hues for a more vibrant ensemble. Cerulean is considered a versatile color, suitable for different fabrics and styles, and can be used to express confidence. It also works well in sportswear and casual wear, conveying a sense of energy.
Interior Design
Cerulean blue can be used in interior design to create a serene and calming atmosphere. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms or bathrooms, creating a soothing atmosphere. Cerulean can be paired with natural materials like wood and stone, or complemented with metallic accents like gold or copper for a luxurious feel. It can be incorporated as wall paint, furniture upholstery, or decorative accents like pillows or throws. It can be also used to create a maritime theme together with beige and white.