Cerulean Blue
About Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #313BE7, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue. It is located within the blue spectrum of visible light. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. In color psychology, blue is known to evoke trust and security, making Cerulean Blue a popular choice for branding and design elements that aim to inspire confidence. It is created by mixing specific proportions of red, green and blue light. The RGB values for #313BE7 are R: 49, G: 59, B: 231. Its calming yet stimulating properties make it ideal for use in a wide range of applications, from web design and marketing materials to interior design and fashion.
The hex color #313BE7, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a text color against a white background. Its luminance value is relatively low, resulting in insufficient contrast for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #313BE7 on a white background falls short of these recommendations. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter background or darkening the text color. For example, pairing it with a light yellow or a very dark gray can significantly enhance readability. Additionally, ensure that any interactive elements using this color have clear visual cues beyond just color to accommodate users with color blindness. Providing alternative text descriptions for images or icons that use this color is also beneficial.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #5d73e9
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast on white backgrounds, making it more accessible.
- #1e278e
A darker shade that improves readability when used as text color, offering a higher contrast ratio.
- #778beb
A softer, more muted blue that can be easier on the eyes and work well for backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue (#313BE7) can be used in website design to create a calming and trustworthy atmosphere. It's suitable for headers, buttons, and accents, particularly in tech or finance-related websites. When used sparingly, it adds a touch of sophistication and reliability. However, due to accessibility concerns, it should be paired with appropriately contrasting colors for text and interactive elements. For example, white text on a #313BE7 background might not meet WCAG standards, requiring a lighter background or darker text.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cerulean Blue can bring a sense of tranquility and openness to a room. It works well in bedrooms or bathrooms, creating a relaxing and serene environment. It can be used for wall paint, accent furniture, or decorative accessories. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to balance its intensity. Consider using it in combination with natural materials like wood or stone to enhance the calming effect.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Cerulean Blue can be used to create eye-catching and stylish garments. It's suitable for both casual and formal wear, depending on the fabric and design. It can be used as a primary color for dresses, shirts, or jackets, or as an accent color for accessories like scarves or handbags. When styling, consider pairing it with complementary colors like orange or yellow for a vibrant look, or with neutral colors like black or white for a more sophisticated appearance.