Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue (#2A5BBC)
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2A5BBC, is a medium-dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with the sky and sea. This color is created by blending specific proportions of red, green, and blue light, with the red component at 16.5%, the green component at 35.7%, and the blue component at 73.3%. In the RGB color model, #2A5BBC corresponds to R:42, G:91, B:188. Cerulean blue is widely used in art, design, and fashion due to its pleasing aesthetics and versatility. It is a popular choice for creating visually appealing and harmonious color schemes. The color's name comes from the Latin word "caeruleus," meaning dark blue, blue-green or sky-blue.
The hex color #2A5BBC, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Its contrast ratio against white (#FFFFFF) is approximately 3.7:1, which falls short of the WCAG 2.1 Level AA standard of 4.5:1 for normal text. Therefore, using #2A5BBC directly on a white background for body text might not be ideal for users with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, developers should consider using a darker shade of blue or a lighter background color to increase the contrast ratio. For larger text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), the contrast ratio meets the WCAG AA standard. Alternatively, this color can be used for decorative elements or accents where the contrast requirements are less stringent. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines and provide a better user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #214999
A slightly darker shade offers improved contrast against light backgrounds.
- #5482c6
A lighter tint provides a softer, less intense appearance while maintaining some of the original's character.
- #0047AB
Using a shade of blue that meets WCAG AA standards for text and background contrast can make a website more readable. This allows more users to see content clearly.
Applications
Versatile Design Applications
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hex code #2A5BBC, is a versatile color that finds applications in various design fields. In web design, it can be used for creating calm and professional-looking websites, particularly suitable for corporate or educational platforms. Its association with trustworthiness and stability makes it ideal for headers, buttons, and other interactive elements. In interior design, it can be applied as an accent wall color or used in decorative elements such as cushions and throws to bring a serene touch to a room. The color pairs well with neutral tones like gray and beige. In fashion, Cerulean Blue is used in clothing and accessories, offering a refreshing and sophisticated look, suitable for both casual and formal wear. It can also be used in branding for companies looking to project an image of reliability and innovation.
Specific Design Contexts
This color can be effectively used in data visualization to represent specific data sets. Due to its distinct appearance, it can help differentiate various categories in charts and graphs. Also, it's usage is suitable in user interface design for interactive elements where a clear visual hierarchy is required. In digital art, Cerulean Blue serves as a valuable asset for painting skies, seascapes, or abstract compositions. It can be blended with other colors to create a wide array of shades and textures. In environmental design, it can be incorporated into public spaces to evoke feelings of peace and tranquility, promoting a sense of well-being.
Professional Applications
Cerulean Blue can be used as a primary color in logos for businesses wanting to project reliability and trustworthiness. This color can be used in websites for law firms, insurance companies, or financial institutions. It can also be used in educational settings, such as universities and online learning platforms, to create a sense of calm and focus. In marketing materials, this color can be used as a call to action button, as it has been shown that certain blue tones increase conversion rates.