Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #2C62BA, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of serenity, trustworthiness, and stability. It is often associated with the sky and sea, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to create a calming or refreshing atmosphere. In the RGB color model, #2C62BA is composed of 17.3% red, 38.4% green, and 72.9% blue. The CMYK color model equivalent is 76% cyan, 47% magenta, 0% yellow, and 27% black. This color is widely used in various fields, including web design, graphic design, and interior design, due to its versatility and appealing aesthetic. Cerulean blue is also known for its psychological effects, promoting feelings of peace and openness, making it suitable for spaces or brands that want to convey these qualities.
The color #2C62BA, a shade of cerulean blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its contrast ratio against white (#FFFFFF) is approximately 3.47:1, which is below the WCAG 2.1 Level AA requirement of 4.5:1 for normal text. Therefore, using #2C62BA for text on a white background may be difficult for users with moderate visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's advisable to use a darker shade of blue or a different color altogether that provides sufficient contrast. When using #2C62BA for graphical elements, a contrast ratio of 3:1 is required, which is met against white. Consider providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color to provide context for users who cannot distinguish it. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey information; use text labels or other visual cues to ensure clarity for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #214e8c
A slightly darker shade of blue that improves contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability and accessibility.
- #569ee6
A lighter shade of blue that can be used for backgrounds or accents, providing a softer visual effect while maintaining some of the original color's vibrancy.
- #000080
Navy blue gives a more formal look compared to cerulean blue, suitable for professional or corporate designs.
Applications
Web Design for Finance and Healthcare
Cerulean blue's calming and trustworthy feel makes it an excellent choice for websites in the finance or healthcare sectors. Its use in user interfaces can promote a sense of security and reliability. For example, a banking application can use this color in its dashboards and buttons to create a consistent and reassuring user experience. This color can also be used for data visualization, where different shades of blue can represent different data points.
Interior Design for Serene Spaces
In interior design, cerulean blue can be used to create a serene and inviting atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, especially when paired with neutral colors like white or beige. For example, painting an accent wall in cerulean blue can add a pop of color without being overwhelming. Additionally, it can be used in decorative elements like cushions, curtains, or rugs to bring a sense of tranquility to the space. The color's association with water and sky makes it a popular choice for coastal-themed interiors.
Cerulean Blue in Fashion Design
Cerulean blue, with its vibrant yet calming presence, is perfectly suited for fashion design. It can be used in a variety of garments, from casual wear like t-shirts and jeans to more formal attire such as dresses and suits. The color complements various skin tones and can be easily paired with other colors such as white, grey, or even contrasting hues like coral or yellow. Cerulean blue accessories, like scarves, handbags, or shoes, can add a stylish pop of color to any outfit, reflecting sophistication and a touch of serenity.