Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hex code #304CB2, is a medium-dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility, trust, and stability. It is a popular color choice in various design fields due to its versatility and aesthetic appeal. In the RGB color model, #304CB2 is composed of 19.22% red, 29.8% green, and 70.59% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 73% cyan, 58% magenta, 0% yellow, and 30% black. Cerulean Blue is often associated with the sky and sea, making it ideal for designs aiming to convey a sense of openness, peace, or depth. It is also considered a cool color, which can create a calming and refreshing visual impact.
The hex color #304CB2, also known as Cerulean Blue, offers moderate accessibility. When used as a foreground color on a white background, it provides a reasonable contrast ratio, generally above the minimum thresholds recommended by WCAG for normal text. However, for smaller text sizes or users with visual impairments, a darker shade might be preferred to ensure optimal readability. As a background color, pairing #304CB2 with lighter text colors such as white or pale yellow will maintain good readability. Careful consideration of the text size, font weight, and background color is crucial to ensure that content is accessible to a wide range of users. Tools such as contrast checkers should be employed during the design process to confirm that the color combination adheres to accessibility guidelines. Furthermore, avoid using color as the sole means of conveying important information; always provide alternative cues, such as text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #5682c2
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while potentially offering improved contrast on darker backgrounds.
- #1e3a8a
A darker shade of blue that enhances contrast, making it ideal for text or elements needing strong visual prominence.
- #4267b2
A more vibrant blue for a brighter, energetic feel, suitable for highlighting calls to action.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cerulean Blue (#304CB2) can be effectively used for headers, navigation bars, and button backgrounds to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its depth can draw the user's eye to key elements on a website, making it suitable for calls to action or important information sections. Furthermore, its versatility allows it to be paired with both light and dark color schemes. When incorporating it into user interfaces, it is advisable to maintain sufficient contrast to ensure readability, and to avoid overusing it to prevent overwhelming the user.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can introduce a sense of calmness and sophistication to a room. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms or studies, fostering a serene environment conducive to relaxation or concentration. It can be used as an accent wall color, paired with neutral furniture, or as the main color for upholstery. When combined with warm, earthy tones, it adds balance and visual interest. Remember to incorporate different textures and materials to add depth to the design.
Fashion
In fashion, Cerulean Blue offers a versatile option for both casual and formal wear. It can be used as a primary color for dresses, suits, or outerwear, or as an accent color for accessories like scarves or ties. It pairs well with neutral colors such as gray, beige, and white, as well as bolder colors like mustard yellow or coral. Consider using it in different fabric textures like silk, cotton, or denim to create different visual effects and to adapt the color to diverse style preferences and occasions.