Cerulean Blue
General Information
Cerulean blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2743BF, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility and depth. It is a moderately dark color, possessing a rich and saturated tone that lies between azure and ultramarine. In the RGB color model, #2743BF is composed of 15.29% red, 26.27% green, and 74.9% blue. This composition gives it a strong blue dominance, making it easily recognizable and visually striking. Cerulean blue is often associated with the sky and sea, imbuing it with a sense of vastness and serenity. Its distinctive hue makes it a popular choice in various design applications, ranging from web design to interior decoration.
The color #2743BF, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. 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 to meet AA standards. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Given the darkness of #2743BF, lighter colors like white or light yellows would be appropriate choices for foreground text. Tools are available online to test color contrast ratios and ensure compliance with accessibility standards, guaranteeing that content is usable by individuals with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #6495ed
A lighter, more pastel shade of blue that offers a softer aesthetic and improved accessibility when used with darker text.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant and saturated blue that provides a bolder look while still maintaining a degree of professionalism.
- #00008b
A darker blue that ensures stronger contrast ratio if you want a darker color scheme, while keeping in line with the blue aesthetics.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, cerulean blue (#2743BF) can be used to create a sense of trust and stability, making it suitable for corporate websites, financial platforms, or educational portals. It can be employed for headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color to draw attention to key elements. Its calming nature can enhance user experience, encouraging prolonged engagement. When paired with lighter neutrals, it creates a professional and reliable visual identity, promoting user confidence and conveying a message of competence. The color should be carefully used to create emphasis without overwhelming other elements.
Interior Design
In interior design, cerulean blue serves as a versatile color for creating serene and sophisticated spaces. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to evoke a sense of tranquility. When paired with natural materials like wood and stone, it creates a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. Cerulean blue also works well in bathrooms, offering a refreshing and clean aesthetic. It pairs well with whites, grays, and even metallic accents like gold or silver for a luxurious touch. The coolness of cerulean makes it a great choice for sun-drenched rooms to create a balance.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Cerulean Blue can be a powerful colour to use to make a statement. It is perfect for evening gowns, business attire, or casual wear. Its rich hue adds a sense of sophistication and confidence to any outfit. When used in accessories like scarves or handbags, it provides a pop of color that enhances the overall ensemble. Cerulean blue pairs well with neutral tones like black, white, and beige, as well as complementary colors like orange and gold. It works particularly well with denim to make the blue pop.