Cerulean Blue
General Information
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2B3EE8, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue often associated with the sky and the sea. It is composed of 17.1% red, 24.3% green, and 90.9% blue. This particular hue falls into the cyan-blue color spectrum, evoking feelings of calmness, peace, and serenity. In color psychology, blue is often linked to trust, loyalty, and wisdom, making Cerulean Blue a popular choice for branding and design elements where these attributes are desired. Its high blue component gives it a cool and refreshing quality. Cerulean blue's ability to pair well with both warm and cool tones makes it a versatile color in design, fashion, and art. Its name is derived from the Latin word "caeruleus," meaning dark blue or sky-blue, further reinforcing its connection to natural elements.
The hex color #2B3EE8, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it may not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standard for contrast ratio, which requires a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text. Similarly, when used on darker backgrounds, the contrast needs careful evaluation. To ensure accessibility, designers should pair this color with either very light or very dark colors to achieve sufficient contrast. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be useful in verifying contrast ratios. Additionally, providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, for links or interactive elements can enhance accessibility for users with visual impairments. Considering the needs of users with color blindness is also crucial. Avoid using color alone to convey important information; instead, use text labels or patterns as supplementary indicators. Testing with color blindness simulators can help identify potential issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #5368e8
A slightly lighter shade that can improve contrast against dark backgrounds while retaining the essence of Cerulean Blue.
- #1a237e
A darker shade that can improve contrast against light backgrounds while retaining a similar feel to Cerulean Blue.
- #778bdd
A muted shade that appears more balanced and neutral, suitable for backgrounds where less vibrant colors are needed.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue (#2B3EE8) can be used to create a calming and trustworthy atmosphere in web design. It is often applied in the headers, footers, and sidebars of websites to establish a sense of stability and professionalism. The color can also be used for call-to-action buttons, icons, and other interactive elements to draw the user's attention without being overly aggressive. Using Cerulean Blue as an accent color can provide a subtle contrast against neutral backgrounds, making the overall design more visually appealing. Furthermore, it is commonly utilized in the creation of charts and graphs to differentiate data sets in a clear and organized manner.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can be used as a calming accent color to evoke tranquility and serenity. It can be incorporated through paint on accent walls, decorative pillows, or artwork to provide a refreshing touch to a space. Due to its association with the sky and water, it can make a room feel more open and airy. Pairing it with neutral tones such as white, gray, or beige can create a balanced and harmonious ambiance. It is also often used in bathrooms and bedrooms to enhance relaxation and promote a sense of peace.
Fashion
In fashion, Cerulean Blue (#2B3EE8) makes a statement without being too loud. It is often used in casual wear, such as jeans, shirts, and dresses, to add a touch of sophistication and style. This color works well as an accent in accessories like scarves, handbags, and jewelry. It can be paired with neutral colors like white, black, and gray for a classic look or combined with complementary colors like orange and yellow for a bold, eye-catching outfit. As a nail polish color, it adds a cool, trendy edge to any style.