Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #284ABE, is a captivating shade of blue often associated with the sky and sea. It embodies tranquility, depth, and a sense of calm. In the RGB color model, #284ABE consists of 15.7% red, 28.6% green, and 74.5% blue. This particular blend creates a rich and sophisticated blue hue that is neither too bright nor too muted. Cerulean Blue's calming properties make it a popular choice in design applications, where it is often used to evoke feelings of peace, trust, and reliability. Its hex code, #284ABE, provides a standardized way for designers and developers to consistently use this color across various platforms and mediums, ensuring color accuracy and consistency.
The color #284ABE, a shade of Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white text is approximately 4.6:1, which meets the WCAG AA standard for normal text but falls short of the AAA standard. For larger text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), it technically meets the AA standard, but careful consideration should still be given to users with visual impairments. When paired with black text, the contrast ratio is insufficient, making it difficult to read. To enhance accessibility, consider using lighter shades of gray or off-white for text on a #284ABE background or, conversely, pairing it with darker, contrasting colors for foreground elements. Adding visual cues or interactive elements can also aid users in distinguishing content effectively. Thorough testing with accessibility tools is highly recommended to ensure optimal usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #5684c2
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark text, improving readability and accessibility.
- #1a347a
A darker shade of blue that offers a stronger contrast against light text, enhancing visibility and meeting accessibility standards.
- #808080
A neutral gray that complements Cerulean Blue while providing sufficient contrast for both text and background elements.
Applications
Web Design and UI/UX
Cerulean Blue is often used in website designs to convey trust, stability, and professionalism. It's suitable for header backgrounds, button highlights, and link underlines. In user interfaces, #284ABE can be applied to progress bars, navigation menus, and active states of interactive elements. Its calming effect makes it a great choice for websites related to finance, technology, and healthcare. However, it's essential to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to meet accessibility guidelines.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can create a serene and calming atmosphere, perfect for bedrooms or bathrooms. It works well as an accent wall color or for upholstery. Pairing it with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige can balance its intensity. #284ABE can also be used in decorative elements such as cushions, curtains, or artwork to add a touch of sophistication and tranquility to any living space.
Fashion and Apparel
Cerulean Blue is a versatile color in fashion, suitable for both casual and formal wear. It can be used for dresses, shirts, and accessories. It complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with neutral colors or bolder hues for a striking effect. As an accent color, #284ABE can add a pop of color to an outfit through scarves, handbags, or jewelry.