Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hex code #2C59BA, is a medium shade of blue that falls between azure and cobalt on the color spectrum. Its name derives from 'cerulean,' a term for the color of the clear sky. This color is often associated with serenity, peace, and stability. In color psychology, blue is generally known to evoke feelings of calmness and trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aiming to project reliability. Historically, cerulean pigment was created using cobalt stannate, a process developed in the late 18th century. Its stable nature made it a favored pigment in various applications, including painting and decorative arts. Today, it remains a widely used color in both digital and physical media.
The color #2C59BA, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when it comes to text contrast. When using this color for text, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A light background is highly recommended. Using a color contrast checker is vital to ensure compliance with accessibility standards such as WCAG 2.1 AA or AAA levels. Also, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; always provide redundant cues such as text labels or icons. Consider users with visual impairments who may struggle to differentiate between similar colors. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, provide clear visual cues on hover or focus states to enhance usability for all users.
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Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue can be used in website headers and footers to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its calming effect makes it suitable for businesses in finance, technology, or healthcare. It should be combined with white or light gray to maintain readability. In user interface design, Cerulean Blue can serve as a primary color for buttons and other interactive elements, drawing the user's eye and suggesting reliability. In branding, it is perfect for businesses that want to convey trustworthiness and security. It can be effective for creating a sense of calm in apps that are designed to handle sensitive personal information.
Fashion and Interior Design
Cerulean Blue can be incorporated into clothing designs for both casual and formal wear. It works well in items such as shirts, dresses, and accessories. It's also a popular color in home decor, being used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, and decorative items like vases and cushions. The color adds a touch of sophistication to any room, complementing neutral color schemes. It is ideal for bedrooms or bathrooms, promoting a sense of calm and tranquility. It is also an excellent choice for branding materials and logo design, especially for businesses wanting to project an image of stability and expertise.
Graphic Design and Data Visualization
This shade of blue is frequently seen in data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, due to its ability to convey information clearly and without causing distractions. Additionally, in digital illustrations and graphic design, this color can be used to create depth and dimension or to represent water and sky. Its association with clarity and openness makes it appropriate for conveying scientific or technological concepts.