Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
The hexadecimal color code #2948BD represents a shade of cerulean blue. It is composed of 16.1% red, 28.2% green, and 74.1% blue. In the RGB color model, this equates to R:41, G:72, B:189. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 78.3% cyan, 61.9% magenta, 0% yellow, and 26.9% black. Cerulean blue is often associated with feelings of calmness, peace, and stability. It's a popular choice in design and art to evoke these emotions. The color sits in the blue-violet part of the color spectrum and is considered a cool color. It has a wavelength of approximately 475 nanometers. The name 'cerulean' comes from the Latin word 'caeruleus', meaning dark blue, blue, or sky-blue.
The color #2948BD, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. When used as a background color, ensure sufficient contrast with the foreground text. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can help verify compliance with WCAG guidelines. If the color is used for interactive elements like buttons or links, provide clear visual cues such as changes in color, size, or shape on hover or focus. This is especially important for users with visual impairments or those relying on keyboard navigation. Avoid using color alone to convey meaning; supplement it with text labels or icons. For instance, if #2948BD indicates a successful action, include a checkmark icon or the word "Success" to ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3468c0
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but potentially offers better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #1f3580
A darker shade of blue, useful for creating a deeper, more subdued tone while remaining in the cerulean family.
- #4a77d4
A more vibrant shade of blue, useful for designs that need to stand out more and grab attention.
Applications
Financial Website Design
Cerulean blue (#2948BD) evokes a sense of calmness and trustworthiness, making it suitable for websites in the financial sector. It can be used for background elements, headings, and call-to-action buttons to create a professional and reliable feel. Pair it with neutral colors like white, light gray, or beige to maintain a clean and uncluttered design. Avoid overly bright or contrasting colors that could distract from the serious nature of the content. Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background for optimal readability, especially in data-heavy sections.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #2948BD can be used as an accent color in bedrooms or living rooms to create a relaxing atmosphere. It works well with natural materials like wood and stone, and can be paired with soft textures like linen and wool. Consider using it for throw pillows, curtains, or wall art to add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Lighter shades of blue can be used on walls to create a sense of spaciousness, while darker shades can be used for furniture or accent walls to add depth and drama.
User Interface elements
Cerulean blue is a good accent color for user interfaces that want to convey trust and security, such as login screens, security settings and checkout pages. It is also great for error notifications and loading bars. Use it in combination with white and light shades of gray to achieve a clean and trust-worthy design.