Cerulean Blue
General Information About Cerulean Blue
The hexadecimal color #285EBE, also known as Cerulean Blue, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue. It is composed of 15.7% red, 36.9% green, and 74.5% blue. In the RGB color space, it is located closer to blue than to green or red. Cerulean Blue is often associated with tranquility, serenity, and depth. It evokes feelings of calmness and peace, reminiscent of the ocean or a clear sky. This color can be used to represent trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence. In design, it can be employed to create a sense of openness and to convey reliability. The color has a unique characteristic due to its medium saturation and balanced hue, making it versatile for various applications and mediums. Cerulean Blue is a popular choice in branding, web design, and art due to its visually appealing and emotionally evocative qualities.
The color #285EBE, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its luminance is relatively low, meaning it may not provide sufficient contrast when used as text against a white or very light background. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to be able to read content effectively. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. To improve accessibility, consider using #285EBE with a very light shade of yellow, orange, or green. Alternatively, using a darker background color would increase the contrast ratio. When used for non-text elements, ensure that the color provides enough differentiation from surrounding elements to convey meaning and provide a clear visual distinction. Careful consideration should also be given when using this color to convey information; do not rely solely on color to communicate important details.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3399ff
A lighter blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability for users with visual impairments.
- #003399
A darker blue that can be used as a background color when #285EBE is used for text or graphical elements.
- #808080
A neutral gray color that can complement #285EBE in a design, providing a balanced and accessible color scheme.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #285EBE can be used for buttons, links, or other interactive elements to draw attention and guide users. However, ensure sufficient contrast with the background color to meet accessibility standards. As a primary brand color it could represent trust, security and technology for Fintech or governmental organizations. Also, the color can be used in charts and graphs to visualize data or highlight key information. For user interfaces, use it for headers, toolbars, or navigation menus to maintain consistency and provide visual cues for users. Be mindful of colorblindness and provide alternative cues where necessary. Using it as background color for white text is not recommended without further adjusting brightness and contrast values of the design.
Interior Design
In interior design, cerulean blue can be used as an accent color in rooms to create a calming and serene atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or bathrooms. Combine it with neutral colors like white or gray to create a balanced and sophisticated look. It can also be used in furniture or decorative items such as pillows, curtains, or artwork. It's best suited for spaces where a sense of tranquility and relaxation is desired. You can mix it with bright colors to add some energy to a room. The cerulean blue works especially well if combined with natural materials such as wood.
Fashion
In fashion, #285EBE can be used in clothing or accessories to add a pop of color to an outfit. Consider using it in scarves, handbags, or shoes to complement neutral-colored clothing. It can also be used in dresses or shirts for a bold and stylish look. Combine it with complementary colors like orange or yellow to create a vibrant and eye-catching ensemble. To keep it more subtle the color can be combined with black and white. Use the color as a signal to show self-confidence. The color is suitable for both formal and informal events.