Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #313EE7, is a vibrant and captivating shade of blue. It is a tertiary color, lying between blue and cyan on the color wheel. This color is often associated with serenity, calmness, and clarity, reminiscent of a clear blue sky or a tranquil ocean. In the RGB color model, #313EE7 consists of 19.22% red, 24.31% green, and 90.59% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it is composed of 79% cyan, 73% magenta, 0% yellow, and 9% black. Cerulean blue has a wavelength of approximately 475 nanometers, placing it within the visible light spectrum that humans can perceive.
The color #313EE7, also known as Cerulean Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its relatively low luminance of 0.14 results in poor contrast against white backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When used as text color on a white background, #313EE7 fails to meet these contrast requirements, making it difficult to read for some users. To improve accessibility, consider using #313EE7 with darker backgrounds or pairing it with lighter text colors that provide sufficient contrast. Using tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Using it for purely decorative purposes is ok but be cautious when using it for interactive elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4f63e8
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while still maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1a237e
A darker shade of blue that provides improved readability when used as text color.
- #646fd4
This alternative color has a very close hue and similar saturation, but it's substantially lighter. It allows the contrast ration against dark background to be substantially improved
Applications
UI Design
Cerulean Blue is frequently utilized in user interface (UI) design to create visually appealing and engaging experiences. Its vibrant hue can be applied to buttons, icons, and other interactive elements to draw attention and guide users through the interface. For example, a website might use Cerulean Blue for its primary call-to-action buttons, making them stand out from the surrounding content. However, designers should ensure sufficient contrast with text and background colors to maintain accessibility standards and readability. In dashboard design, Cerulean Blue can effectively represent data visualizations or progress indicators.
Fashion Design
In the fashion world, Cerulean Blue offers versatility and can be incorporated into various garments and accessories. Its vibrant and cheerful nature makes it an excellent choice for spring and summer collections. Designers might use Cerulean Blue for dresses, blouses, skirts, or even swimwear to evoke a sense of freshness and energy. When paired with neutral tones like white or beige, Cerulean Blue creates a balanced and sophisticated look. Moreover, it can be used as an accent color in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to an outfit. This color is a great pick for expressing your personal style.
Interior Design
Cerulean Blue brings a calming and refreshing vibe to interior spaces, making it suitable for bedrooms, bathrooms, or living rooms. Use it as an accent wall color, incorporating it through decorative pieces such as cushions, rugs, or curtains, can create a serene atmosphere. Pairing it with warm neutrals like cream or light gray can balance out the coolness of the blue, making the room feel cozy and inviting. Consider incorporating potted plants to enhance the natural, soothing effect. You can also use it in tiling or artwork to add a touch of vibrancy without overwhelming the space.