Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #294CB3, is a medium-dark shade of blue that exudes a sense of calm and sophistication. It falls within the blue color family and is often associated with tranquility, stability, and trust. In the RGB color model, it consists of 16.08% red, 29.8% green, and 70.2% blue. The CMYK values are 0.77, 0.57, 0.00, 0.30, indicating the proportions of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks needed to produce this color in print. Cerulean Blue is a versatile color that can be used effectively in various design applications, ranging from web and graphic design to fashion and interior decor.
The color #294CB3, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance can make it difficult to read when used as text on a white background. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Using #294CB3 for text on a white background may not meet these contrast requirements. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a darker background color to increase the contrast ratio. Alternatively, this color can be effectively used for decorative elements where the contrast requirements are less stringent. It is crucial to always test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify sufficient contrast for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability for text.
- #191970
A darker shade of blue, suitable for backgrounds or accents, providing a strong contrast with lighter text colors.
- #2e8b57
A similar shade with more green, usefull if the design needs a touch of turquoise.
Applications
Web and UI Design
Cerulean Blue is a popular choice in web design for creating a sense of trust and stability. It can be used for primary buttons, navigation bars, and other interactive elements to guide users through the interface. In user interface (UI) design, Cerulean Blue can be used in different tints and shades, from a light, airy background to a dark, prominent call-to-action button. When combined with white or light gray, it evokes feelings of clarity and efficiency. This color is also useful in charts and data visualization as it stands out clearly and does not fatigue the eye.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, Cerulean Blue is often associated with sophistication and calm. It can be used in dresses, shirts, and accessories to create a polished and refined look. As a primary color, it projects confidence and is visually appealing for both casual and formal outfits. Cerulean Blue pairs well with neutral colors like beige, white, and gray, as well as complementary colors like orange and coral, to create a more striking visual impact. It is also a popular color in swimwear and beachwear, embodying the tranquil and inviting nature of water and sky.
Interior Design
Cerulean blue, with its calming and soothing properties, can significantly contribute to creating relaxing spaces. As it reminds of the sky and the sea, it can promote feelings of spaciousness and tranquility. It works well in bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms. It can be used as an accent wall color, in furniture upholstery, or in decorative items such as pillows, curtains, and rugs. Pairing cerulean blue with natural materials such as wood, linen, and cotton enhances its calming effect, creating a cozy and serene atmosphere.