Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean blue, represented by the hex code #2959BD, is a distinct shade of blue that evokes feelings of serenity and calmness. It is often associated with the sky and the ocean, lending a sense of openness and tranquility. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 35.05% green, and 74.12% blue. This particular shade falls within the blue-cyan spectrum, making it a cooler hue. Its usage can vary widely, from digital interfaces to physical design, because of its balanced aesthetic and perceived trustworthiness. The color's relative lightness allows for legibility with dark font colors, while its intensity helps it stand out without overwhelming the visual experience.
The hex color #2959bd, a shade of cerulean blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white is approximately 3.7:1, which falls short of the WCAG AA standard of 4.5:1 for normal text. This means individuals with moderate visual impairments may find it difficult to read text rendered in this color against a white background. To improve accessibility, consider using a darker background or lightening the color. For instance, pairing it with a very light gray or off-white can enhance readability. Alternatively, increasing the font size and weight can also mitigate the contrast issue. A color contrast checker tool can provide precise ratios and guidance on compliance with accessibility standards, ensuring content is usable for a wider audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3468c7
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1f4287
A darker shade of blue providing better contrast with lighter text, improving readability for a broader audience.
- #2e64fe
A more saturated blue tone which can offer better visibility on screens and printed materials.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean blue, represented by #2959BD, is a versatile color in web design. It can be used for primary buttons to draw attention to key actions. It also suits navigation bars and headers, providing a sense of trust and stability. In user interface elements, this color can indicate interactive components or active states, ensuring a consistent user experience. The color's calming effect makes it ideal for websites dealing with sensitive or important information, such as finance or healthcare, fostering user confidence and engagement. Its professional and trustworthy feel makes it suitable for corporate websites, technology platforms, and educational institutions.
Fashion
In fashion, #2959BD (cerulean blue) can be used to create sophisticated and professional looks. It can be incorporated into business attire, such as blouses or suits, to project an image of competence and reliability. As an accent color, it works well in accessories like scarves or ties, adding a pop of color without being too overwhelming. The color also lends itself well to casual wear, such as denim shirts or summer dresses, creating a relaxed yet stylish appearance. Cerulean blue pairs effectively with neutral colors like gray, white, and beige, as well as complementary colors like coral or peach, allowing for diverse and appealing outfit combinations.
Interior Design
Cerulean blue, with its calming and serene qualities, is a popular choice for interior design. It can be used as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms, adding a touch of tranquility to the space. Walls painted in this hue create a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation areas. Furniture, such as sofas or armchairs, in cerulean blue can act as a focal point in a room, providing a sense of sophistication and style. It combines well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Decorative items such as cushions, curtains, or artwork in this color can also complement existing decor, bringing a cohesive and harmonious look to the interior.