Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean blue, represented by the hex code #2B47BB, is a captivating and vibrant shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and trust. It is often associated with the sky and the ocean, symbolizing vastness, depth, and stability. This particular shade of blue is slightly muted, lending it a sophisticated and refined quality. In color psychology, blue is known to promote relaxation and reduce stress, making it a popular choice for various applications, from branding to interior design. Cerulean blue is often used by companies seeking to convey reliability, trustworthiness, and professionalism. Its hexadecimal value indicates the specific combination of red, green, and blue light required to produce this color on digital displays.
The hex color #2B47BB, a shade of cerulean blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially regarding color contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to pair it with text or foreground elements that offer sufficient contrast to ensure readability. 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. Using a light color like white or a very pale yellow for text on a #2B47BB background can help achieve this. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can be used to verify compliance. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for important interactive elements, as users with color vision deficiencies might miss them. Supplement color cues with text labels or icons for enhanced accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3f51b5
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against dark text, making it more suitable for backgrounds in user interfaces.
- #303f9f
A more saturated blue which is a good choice to provide more visual impact.
- #1a237e
This darker blue provides a greater sense of depth and can be used to create a more sophisticated look while maintaining a good contrast ratio with lighter elements.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean blue is a captivating color choice for website headers and navigation bars, particularly for businesses aiming to project an image of trustworthiness and innovation. Its calming yet vibrant nature encourages exploration and engagement, leading users deeper into the site's content. In user interface design, #2B47BB can be effectively employed for call-to-action buttons, subtly guiding users towards desired actions without overwhelming the visual hierarchy. Consider using it in conjunction with lighter accent colors to maintain a balanced and accessible design.
Interior Design
In interior design, cerulean blue, #2B47BB, can introduce a sense of serenity and sophistication to living spaces. As an accent wall color, it can create a focal point in a room, complementing neutral-toned furniture and décor. When used in smaller doses, such as throw pillows or decorative vases, it can add a pop of color that enlivens the overall atmosphere. In bedrooms, cerulean blue can promote relaxation and tranquility, making it an ideal choice for creating a calming retreat.
Fashion
Cerulean blue is often seen in fashion, especially in spring and summer collections. It works well for dresses, blouses, and accessories, offering a fresh and vibrant look. The color complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with neutral colors for a balanced outfit or with brighter shades for a bold statement. The color's versatility makes it a popular choice for both casual and formal wear, providing a touch of elegance and sophistication.