Cerulean Blue
General Information About Cerulean Blue
The color #2D5FB9, also known as Cerulean Blue, is a saturated and moderately dark shade of blue. It belongs to the cyan-blue color family. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 17.65% red, 37.65% green, and 72.55% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 76% cyan, 48% magenta, 0% yellow, and 27% black. Cerulean blue is often associated with the sky and sea, evoking feelings of tranquility, peace, and stability. This color is frequently used in branding to convey trust and reliability, and it's a popular choice for corporate logos and websites. It also has applications in art and design, where it can be used to create a sense of depth and dimension.
The hex color #2D5FB9, a shade of Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white text is approximately 2.7:1, falling short of the WCAG's recommended 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This means that using white text on a #2D5FB9 background may be difficult for users with low vision or color deficiencies to read comfortably. To improve accessibility, consider using darker text colors like black or very dark grays, which significantly increase the contrast ratio. Alternatively, using a lighter tint of blue for the background or employing text with increased font size and weight can enhance readability. Careful consideration of color combinations is crucial to ensure that content is accessible to all users, regardless of their visual abilities. Tools such as contrast checkers can help evaluate and optimize color pairings.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3498db
A slightly lighter blue, #3498DB, offers better contrast against white text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #4682b4
For situations needing a more muted tone, #4682B4 provides a similar feel with a bit more gray, thus creating a more calm appearance.
- #5dade2
To keep in the family of blues, #5DADE2 can provide a softer, lighter alternative that is easier on the eyes in large doses.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #2D5FB9 can be employed for header backgrounds or button accents to draw attention. The dark blue shade can be effective for creating a sense of trust and reliability, making it suitable for financial websites or corporate interfaces. Furthermore, it can be paired with lighter blues or complementary colors for a balanced and visually appealing design. Avoid using it as a primary background color for large blocks of text due to accessibility concerns.
Interior Design
In interior design, #2D5FB9 can be used as an accent color in a room to add a pop of sophistication. It works well on accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. Paired with neutral colors like gray or beige, it can create a calming and elegant atmosphere. The color also complements natural wood tones, bringing a sense of warmth and balance to the space. It's suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices.
Fashion
In fashion, #2D5FB9 can be used in clothing or accessories to create a bold statement. A dress or jacket in this color can be eye-catching, while smaller accessories like scarves or handbags can add a touch of elegance to an outfit. The color pairs well with neutral colors such as black, white, or gray, as well as complementary colors like orange or yellow. It is suitable for both casual and formal wear, depending on the design and fabric.