Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2850B0, is a cool and calming shade of blue. It is a tertiary color, blending aspects of blue and cyan. The name 'Cerulean' is derived from the Latin word 'caeruleus', which means 'dark blue'. This color is often associated with the sky and the ocean, evoking feelings of peace, tranquility, and stability. In color psychology, blue is known to inspire trust, loyalty, and intelligence. Cerulean Blue is commonly used in branding and marketing to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism. Its versatility allows it to be used in a wide array of applications, from web design to fashion.
The hex color #2850B0, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white text is approximately 3.7:1, which does not meet the WCAG AA standard for normal text (4.5:1). Therefore, using white text on a #2850B0 background might be difficult for users with visual impairments. For better accessibility, consider using darker text on the #2850B0 background or choosing a lighter shade of blue or a different color altogether. When used for interactive elements like buttons, ensure sufficient contrast for focus indicators. Using this color for large text or graphical elements improves accessibility somewhat, but testing with accessibility evaluation tools is still recommended. Combining it with appropriate ARIA attributes can further enhance the user experience for assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3e7ac8
A lighter shade that provides better contrast against dark text, making it suitable for backgrounds.
- #1e3a8a
A darker shade that offers improved contrast when used with light text, ideal for headings and important elements.
- #a0b4d9
A softer blue that can be used as a neutral background, that is easy on the eyes.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue can be effectively used in website design to create a sense of trust and stability. It's suitable for header backgrounds, button highlights, and link colors. Due to its calm nature, it can be used in the health sector for website design or app design. It evokes a sense of trust and reliability. Use it strategically to guide the user's eye and create a cohesive brand identity. For better accessibility, combine it with white text for larger areas or use dark text for smaller text to ensure readability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue is ideal for creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used for accent walls, upholstery, or decorative elements. Consider pairing it with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige to balance the color and prevent it from overwhelming the space. It works well in bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms, where a sense of tranquility is desired. Metallic accents such as gold or silver can complement this color, adding a touch of luxury.
Fashion and Beauty
Cerulean Blue is a popular choice in the fashion industry, often used for dresses, shirts, and accessories. It can be paired with neutral colors for a classic look or combined with brighter hues for a more vibrant ensemble. Consider using Cerulean Blue for professional wear, such as blazers or blouses. In the beauty industry, it can be used in eye shadows, nail polishes and eyeliners, offering many possibilies to brighten up someone's features. It can also be integrated into print design for marketing material.