Cerulean Blue
General Information about Cerulean Blue (#314CB5)
Cerulean Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #314CB5, is a captivating shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility and depth. This particular hue is often associated with the sky and the sea, making it a versatile choice for various design applications. In the RGB color model, #314CB5 consists of 19.22% red, 29.8% green, and 70.98% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.73, 0.58, 0.00, 0.29, indicating the proportions of cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black) needed to reproduce the color in print. Cerulean Blue is a popular color choice in web design, graphic arts, and fashion, often used to create a sense of calm, sophistication, and reliability.
The color #314CB5, Cerulean Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance contrast against white backgrounds may pose readability issues for users with visual impairments. 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 using #314CB5 for text, consider pairing it with lighter shades of yellow, white, or light cyan to ensure sufficient contrast. For backgrounds, using darker shades of gray or black can improve text legibility. Providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color is also crucial for screen reader users. Developers should leverage accessibility tools to evaluate the contrast ratio and ensure compliance with accessibility standards, thereby creating a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #5d9cec
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
- #1e3a8a
A darker shade of blue that can be used for backgrounds when #314CB5 is used for text, improving readability.
- #778899
A muted gray-blue color that can be used as a neutral alternative, especially in designs where #314CB5 might be too vibrant.
Applications
Web Design
Cerulean Blue (#314CB5) is exceptionally well-suited for website headers and navigation bars, offering a visually appealing yet professional aesthetic. Its calming nature makes it ideal for sites in the tech or healthcare industries. In user interface (UI) design, this color can be employed for buttons and interactive elements, drawing the user's attention without being overly aggressive. The choice of typography is key; pairing it with clean, sans-serif fonts in white or light gray enhances readability and creates a modern, user-friendly experience. Its rich hue is versatile enough to adapt to various design schemes, from minimalist layouts to more complex, graphic-intensive designs.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Cerulean Blue (#314CB5) can be used to create serene and sophisticated spaces. As an accent wall color, it brings a touch of elegance to living rooms or bedrooms. Furniture pieces, such as sofas or armchairs upholstered in this color, can serve as focal points in a room. Accessorizing with cushions, throws, or artwork that incorporate this hue can tie the entire space together. When paired with neutral colors like gray or beige, it exudes a calming, balanced atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for creating relaxing and inviting home environments. It also works well in bathrooms, evoking a spa-like feel.
Fashion
Cerulean Blue (#314CB5) is popular in fashion, particularly for its ability to add a touch of sophistication and depth to garments. It is often used in dress designs for both casual and formal occasions, creating a visually appealing and memorable look. As an accent color in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes, it can add a pop of color to more neutral outfits. In men's fashion, it's found in shirts or blazers, bringing a refreshing and stylish element to the ensemble. The color's versatility allows it to be combined with a variety of other hues, including white, black, and even earthy tones, making it a staple in many wardrobes.