Cerulean Blue
About Cerulean Blue (#274EAF)
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #274EAF, is a captivating shade of blue that sits between cyan and azure on the color spectrum. This color is often associated with the sky and the ocean, evoking feelings of tranquility, peace, and serenity. In color psychology, blue is often linked to trust, stability, and wisdom, making Cerulean Blue a popular choice for brands and designs aiming to convey reliability and professionalism. It is created by combining red, green and blue light at specific intensities. The RGB values are R:39, G:78, B:175. It belongs to the broader family of blue colors, which includes shades like navy, royal blue, and sky blue, each possessing its unique characteristics and applications. Cerulean Blue offers a balanced hue that makes it visually appealing across various mediums and design contexts.
The hex color #274EAF, a shade of Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires careful pairing with a background color 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. Given the darkness of #274EAF, it's best paired with lighter colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or light grays to meet these standards. Using a color contrast checker tool is highly recommended to verify compliance. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information; supplement it with text labels or icons to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure sufficient visual cues, such as a change in color or a clear border, on hover or focus states to aid usability for all users, including those with visual impairments and those using assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3469d1
A slightly lighter blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while potentially offering better contrast against darker backgrounds.
- #5d7cb3
A desaturated blue that can be used as a more muted alternative, suitable for backgrounds or less prominent UI elements.
- #1a367d
A darker shade of blue that provides a stronger visual presence.
Applications
Web Design for Professional Services
Cerulean Blue (#274EAF) can be used to create a calming and trustworthy user interface. It evokes feelings of stability and professionalism, making it well-suited for websites or applications in the finance, healthcare, or education sectors. Its vibrant tone can draw attention to primary calls to action or important information, especially when contrasted with neutral backgrounds. Careful consideration should be given to color pairings, as excessive use of saturated colors can lead to visual fatigue. Balance is key to creating a visually appealing and user-friendly digital experience.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can serve as an accent color in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Its soothing nature promotes relaxation and focus, making it a good choice for creating tranquil spaces. It pairs well with neutral colors like whites, grays, and light wood tones to create a balanced and harmonious atmosphere. Alternatively, it can be used to create contrast with warmer colors like yellows or oranges to add vibrancy to a room. The color can be implemented through painted walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories like pillows and artwork.
Fashion Design and Apparel
In fashion, Cerulean Blue offers a versatile option for creating stylish outfits. It can be used as a statement color for dresses, jackets, or accessories, or as a subtle accent color in patterns or trims. It complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with both neutral and bold colors to create different looks. Cerulean blue pairs well with whites and beige, creating a refreshing coastal look. For a bolder statement, try it with shades of orange or yellow.