Blue is one of the primary colors and it is ubiquitous in our daily lives. From the sky and ocean to clothes and logos, shades of blue are incredibly versatile and popular. But with so many blues out there, what are some of the most common shades?
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and recognized shades of blue, their unique properties, common uses, and how they got their names. Understanding the nuances between different blues can help you pick the perfect shade for your next design, decorating, or fashion project.
Vivid Blue Shades
Let’s start with some of the boldest and brightest blues. These shades really pack a punch and are perfect for grabbing attention.
Azure
Azure is a rich, vibrant blue that is often associated with the color of the clear sky. This brilliant blue shade got its name from the precious stone lapis lazuli which was ground up to make the pigment ultramarine.
Some key facts about azure blue:
– Hex code: #007FFF
– RGB values: (0, 127, 255)
– CMYK values: (100, 50, 0, 0)
– Closest web colors: Azure, Egyptian blue
– Common uses: Website design, logos, sports team colors
Azure blue is energetic and intense. It stands out against almost any backdrop. Use this eye-catching color to add excitement to your projects.
Electric Blue
As the name suggests, electric blue is a shockingly bright, vibrant shade that really packs a visual punch. It energizes any design.
Some key facts about electric blue:
– Hex code: #7DF9FF
– RGB values: (125, 249, 255)
– CMYK values: (51, 2, 0, 0)
– Closest web colors: Blue (Crayola), Azure
– Common uses: Headlines, accents, graphics
Electric blue is perfect for grabbing attention. But use it sparingly as it can be overpowering in large doses. It works well for headlines, logos, or as an accent color.
Cerulean
Cerulean is a bright, medium blue with green undertones. Its name comes from the Latin “caeruleus” meaning “sky blue”.
Some key facts about cerulean:
– Hex code: #007BA7
– RGB values: (0, 123, 167)
– CMYK values: (100, 26, 0, 35)
– Closest web color: Cerulean frost
– Common uses: Advertisements, infographics, sports uniforms
Cerulean is a crisp, cool shade. It feels sophisticated yet still lively. Use this blue to add a pop of color while still maintaining a professional look.
Cool Blue Shades
Next up are some cooler, more muted blue tones. These blues have a calming effect and work well as background colors.
Periwinkle
Periwinkle is a pale, purple-tinged blue with a soft, cool tone. The name comes from the periwinkle flower which sports the same blue-violet color.
Some key facts about periwinkle blue:
– Hex code: #CCCCFF
– RGB values: (204, 204, 255)
– CMYK values: (20, 20, 0, 0)
– Closest web color: Periwinkle (Crayola)
– Common uses: Websites, walls, fabrics
With its soothing hue, periwinkle blue works nicely in backgrounds. Use it to create a relaxed feel. Periwinkle walls or website backgrounds set a serene mood.
Blue Gray
Blue gray is a cool, muted blue with strong gray undertones. It’s a soft, hazy shade.
Some key facts about blue gray:
– Hex code: #D4DBE8
– RGB values: (140, 181, 218)
– CMYK values: (80, 50, 20, 0)
– Closest web color: Glaucous
– Common uses: Walls, furniture, bedding
The muted blue gray color is perfect for creating tranquil, sophisticated spaces. Use it in large doses on walls or soft furnishings. It works beautifully in bedrooms or offices.
Baby Blue
As the name suggests, baby blue is an extremely light, pale blue. It is similar to a blue tinted white.
Some key facts about baby blue:
– Hex code: #89CFF0
– RGB values: (137, 207, 240)
– CMYK values: (43, 14, 0, 6)
– Closest web color: Baby blue eyes
– Common uses: Baby shower decor, nurseries, Easter eggs
With its innocence and purity, baby blue naturally suits infant themes. Use this delicate, peaceful shade for nursery decor or baby showers. Baby blue is also popular for Easter eggs and decorations.
Bold Blue Shades
Looking for something bolder? Here are some deeper, richer blue hues that make a dramatic impact.
Navy Blue
Navy blue is a very dark midnight blue. Its name comes from the dark blue uniforms worn by officers in the British Royal Navy.
Some key facts about navy blue:
– Hex code: #000080
– RGB values: (0, 0, 128)
– CMYK values: (100, 100, 0, 50)
– Closest web color: Navy blue
– Common uses: Uniforms, formal wear, nautical themes
With its depth and gravitas, navy blue brings a sense of authority. Use it for uniforms, suits, or to evoke a nautical vibe. Navy works well with bright accent colors like yellow or red.
Royal Blue
Royal blue is a rich, deep blue that was historically used for the attire of royalty. It conveys prestige and class.
Some key facts about royal blue:
– Hex code: #4169E1
– RGB values: (65, 105, 225)
– CMYK values: (71, 53, 0, 12)
– Closest web color: Royal blue (dark)
– Common uses: Sports uniforms, royal regalia, flags
Royal blue makes a strong, bold statement. Use it to signify leadership or convey luxury. It works well for sports uniforms, flags, or formal attire.
Indigo
Indigo is an extremely deep purplish-blue. It sits between violet and blue on the color wheel.
Some key facts about indigo:
– Hex code: #4B0082
– RGB values: (75, 0, 130)
– CMYK values: (42, 100, 0, 49)
– Closest web color: Indigo
– Common uses: Denim, New Age themes, rainbow color
The rich hue of indigo has an almost mystical vibe. It’s popular in New Age themes and as one of the colors of the rainbow. Indigo is also the traditional dye used to color denim.
Green-Tinged Blues
Some shades of blue take on a greenish tint. Here are some of the most popular blue-green hues.
Teal
Teal is a medium blue-green with strong green undertones. It gets its name from the common teal bird which sports similar coloring.
Some key facts about teal:
– Hex code: #008080
– RGB values: (0, 128, 128)
– CMYK values: (100, 0, 0, 50)
– Closest web color: Teal
– Common uses: Environmental causes, spa decor, kitchenware
With its cool, earthy tone, teal blue-green is widely used to represent nature and environmental causes. It’s also popular in spas and for retro kitchen decor.
Aquamarine
As the name suggests, aquamarine is the pale blue-green color of seawater. It was also the name of the precious pale blue-green gemstone.
Some key facts about aquamarine:
– Hex code: #7FFFD4
– RGB values: (127, 255, 212)
– CMYK values: (50, 0, 17, 0)
– Closest web color: Aquamarine
– Common uses: Beachy decor, bridesmaid dresses, March birthstone
Aquamarine evokes cool, clear waters. Use this refreshing color for beach house decor or ocean-themed events. It’s also the birthstone for March.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a light blue-green with noticeable gray undertones. It was originally named after the valuable blue-green gemstone mined in Turkey.
Some key facts about turquoise:
– Hex code: #30D5C8
– RGB values: (48, 213, 200)
– CMYK values: (77, 0, 6, 16)
– Closest web color: Turquoise
– Common uses: Spa decor, beachy themes, Southwest style
With its soft seafoam coloring, turquoise blue-green fits right in at the beach or spa. It’s also widely used in Southwestern decor and Native American art.
Popular Blue Color Combinations
Blue is extremely versatile and works well with many color palettes. Here are some of the most popular color combinations using different shades of blue:
Blue and Orange
Blue’s complementary color on the color wheel is orange. This creates a very high-contrast, vibrant combo. Try pairing a bright orange with a medium blue for maximum impact.
Blue and Green
Blue and green are side-by-side on the color wheel, making them analogous colors. Different shades of blue-green are soothing and work well together. Add some darker blue accents.
Blue and Purple
Light blues and soft purples create a beautiful, cool-toned palette. Try light periwinkle blue with lavender purple for a soft, elegant look.
Blue and White
Crisp white really intensifies shades of blue. Use white as a base and add accents of blue for a clean, nautical vibe.
Blue and Gray
Mixing blue and gray results in sophisticated, subtle palettes. Try a blue-gray wall color with navy blue accents for an elegant, tailored look.
Blue and Yellow
Vibrant yellow pops against shades of blue. Use bright yellow accents with a navy blue base for a fun, summery scheme.
Tips for Decorating With Blue
Ready to incorporate blue into your home or designs? Here are some top tips:
– Light blues can feel cold, so use them sparingly in bedrooms or pair them with warm woods and creams.
– Dark blues like navy and royal blue work well for big statement pieces like front doors or accent walls.
– Muted blue grays create serene, relaxing spaces perfect for self-care.
– Vivid blues are energizing and perfect for playrooms, home offices, or accent walls.
– Make sure blues have enough contrast from other colors. If you use too many light blues together, they can blend together and feel washed out. Add in contrast with white, black, or bold accent colors.
– Nature-inspired blues like aqua, teal, and turquoise work beautifully in beachy, tropical, or boho spaces.
Conclusion
Blue is one of the most popular colors with an incredible range of shades and tones to pick from. Vibrant vivid blues like azure or electric blue grab attention. Cool muted blues like periwinkle or blue gray have a calming effect. Bold deep blues like navy and royal blue convey prestige and authority. Blue-greens like aquamarine and turquoise evoke tropical waters.
Understanding the nuances between different blues allows you to choose the perfect shade for your projects. Use light blues to relax, dark blues for drama, and bright blues to energize. Incorporate blue into color schemes with orange, green, purple or yellow accents. With the right shade and combo, blue creates memorable designs and spaces. So explore the depths of blue to find your perfect hue!
