Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hex code #2e5cb8, is a medium-dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. It is often associated with the sky and sea, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to convey a sense of peace and tranquility. In the RGB color model, #2e5cb8 consists of 18.04% red, 36.08% green, and 72.16% blue. This specific combination gives it its distinctive hue. The color is often used in various fields, including web design, graphic design, and interior design, to create visually appealing and balanced compositions. Its versatility allows it to be paired with various other colors to achieve different aesthetic effects.
The hex color #2e5cb8, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its contrast ratio against white (#ffffff) is approximately 2.9:1, which falls short of the WCAG AA standard of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This means that text rendered in #2e5cb8 on a white background might be difficult for users with moderate visual impairments to read comfortably. To improve accessibility, consider using a darker shade of blue or a lighter background color to increase the contrast ratio. When using #2e5cb8, avoid using it for small text or critical interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast. Utilizing tools that assess color contrast is essential to ensure content is perceivable by a wider audience. Providing alternative styling options, such as a high-contrast theme, can further enhance usability for individuals with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #214a94
A slightly darker shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability for users with visual impairments.
- #5d8acf
A lighter tint of cerulean blue, suitable for backgrounds or decorative elements where high contrast isn't necessary but a subtle blue hue is desired.
- #3a70d4
A more saturated blue, ensuring that it stands out and conveys a sense of energy and importance. It's helpful for drawing attention and making an impact.
Applications
Website Design
Cerulean Blue is often used in website headers and footers to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its calming effect makes it suitable for websites related to finance, technology, or healthcare. The color can also be used for call-to-action buttons if paired with a contrasting color for the text to ensure good visibility. Employing cerulean blue alongside white and gray creates a clean and modern design.
Interior and Fashion Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can be used as an accent color to add a pop of color to a room without being overwhelming. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, and white, creating a soothing and inviting atmosphere. Consider using it for cushions, curtains, or wall art. In fashion, this color can be employed in branding for clothing and accessories, such as handbags or belts, ensuring an elegant and classy presence.
Branding and Marketing
Cerulean Blue is an excellent choice for branding materials in industries that aim to project reliability and innovation. It’s effective in logos, business cards, and marketing collateral for technology companies, financial institutions, and educational organizations. Using this color can help establish trust and convey a sense of stability and forward-thinking approach.