Cerulean Blue
General Information
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #274FAF, is a medium-dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and serenity. It is often associated with the sea and sky, lending it a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 15.3% red, 29% green, and 68.6% blue. The name "cerulean" is derived from the Latin word "caeruleus," meaning dark blue, blue-green or sky-blue. This color is a versatile choice for various applications, including graphic design, web development, and interior decoration. Its balanced hue makes it easy to combine with other colors, allowing for the creation of harmonious and visually appealing designs. Cerulean blue is often used in corporate branding to convey trustworthiness and reliability.
The color #274FAF, Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white (#FFFFFF) is approximately 3.2:1, falling short of the WCAG's minimum requirement of 4.5:1 for normal text. This means that text using this color on a white background may be difficult for users with moderate visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider using a darker shade of blue or a lighter background color to increase contrast. When using this color for graphical elements, ensure that sufficient alternative cues (e.g., shapes, icons, text labels) are provided to convey the information, especially for users who may have difficulty distinguishing colors. Providing alternative stylesheets or themes can allow users to customize the color scheme to their individual needs. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements, as users with color blindness may miss them.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly darker shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #4169e1
A lighter, more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #808080
A neutral grey can offer a more subtle contrast that works well with Cerulean Blue, allowing it to be the focal point.
Applications
Website Design
Cerulean Blue is a classic and calming color, perfect for creating a serene and professional website design. It can be used for website headers, backgrounds, and call-to-action buttons to create a trustworthy and reliable impression. When combined with white or light gray, it creates a clean and modern aesthetic, ideal for businesses in finance, technology, or healthcare. It evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it a great choice for branding and user interfaces.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can bring a sense of tranquility and depth to a room. It is particularly well-suited for bedrooms and bathrooms, where a calming atmosphere is desired. It can be used as an accent color on walls, furniture, or decorative accessories. Pair it with natural materials like wood and stone to create a balanced and harmonious space. It works well in coastal-themed rooms, evoking the colors of the sea and sky.
Fashion and Beauty
Cerulean Blue eyeshadow or eyeliner can enhance the eyes without being too overpowering. Pairing it with neutral lip colors creates a polished and refined look. In fashion, Cerulean Blue can be used in dresses, blouses, or accessories. This color works particularly well for spring and summer wardrobes, exuding a fresh and light vibe. When paired with denim or neutral tones, Cerulean Blue creates a relaxed yet stylish ensemble. This color is excellent to wear during day or night, providing a look that is both elegant and timeless.