Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2C4AC4, is a captivating and calming shade of blue. It is located in the blue-violet region of the color spectrum and is often associated with the sky and the sea. This particular hue is a blend of blue with hints of green, which imparts a certain depth and complexity to its appearance. The name 'Cerulean' is derived from the Latin word 'caeruleus,' meaning 'dark blue' or 'sky-blue.' Cerulean Blue is widely used in various fields, including art, fashion, and design, to evoke feelings of tranquility, serenity, and openness. Its unique character makes it a versatile and appealing color choice for numerous applications, contributing a touch of sophistication and elegance.
The color #2C4AC4, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio with pure white (#FFFFFF) is approximately 3.7:1, which is below the WCAG recommended minimum of 4.5:1 for normal text. Therefore, using #2C4AC4 for text on a white background may be difficult for users with low vision. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of blue or using it on a darker background. When paired with black (#000000), the contrast ratio is around 5.7:1, which passes WCAG AA standards for normal text and AAA standards for large text. Ensuring sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability, especially for users with visual impairments. Careful consideration of background and text color combinations is essential for creating inclusive and accessible web content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4f75c9
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e338a
A darker shade for backgrounds to ensure readable white text. This alternative preserves the cerulean hue while providing enhanced contrast.
- #3b5bcd
A more saturated version of the color that can be more suitable for call to action buttons and highlights, catching user attention effectively.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cerulean Blue can be effectively utilized for primary buttons and call-to-action elements. It provides a calming yet authoritative feel, encouraging user interaction. For instance, a website for a financial institution might use this color to inspire trust and stability. Furthermore, Cerulean Blue works well in navigation menus and headings to establish a clear visual hierarchy. When combined with complementary colors like shades of orange or yellow, it can create a visually appealing and balanced interface, improving the overall user experience and aesthetic appeal of the website.
Fashion
In fashion, Cerulean Blue is often used in spring and summer collections due to its association with the sky and sea. It can be found in dresses, shirts, and swimwear, offering a fresh and vibrant look. This color pairs well with neutral tones like white, beige, and gray, as well as brighter accents like coral or yellow. Cerulean Blue can evoke a sense of tranquility and sophistication, making it a popular choice for both casual and formal wear. Fashion designers often use it to create elegant and eye-catching designs that are both modern and timeless.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can be used to create a calming and inviting atmosphere. It's suitable for bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms where relaxation is desired. You can use Cerulean Blue as an accent wall color, or in accessories such as pillows, curtains, and rugs. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like silver or gold. This color can also be used in kitchens, where it can create a clean and fresh look. By incorporating Cerulean Blue, interior designers can create spaces that are both stylish and serene.