Shades of Blue – A Color-Mixing Guide on How to Make Blue

Blue is a widely loved color. So much of the world we live in is blue, from the oceans to the sky. Whether you are a graphic designer, interior designer or a painter, knowing how to make and use different shades of blue is essential. In this article, we go through the 100 Most Popular Shades of Blue, including descriptions, visuals and all color codes.

The Color Blue in a Nutshell

Shades of Blue Color

Absolute zero

Absolute zero is a deep, cool blue that resembles the frigid temperatures suggested by its name, evoking the icy reaches of outer space.

Air superiority blue

Air superiority blue is a medium sky blue color, lighter than traditional azure, with a grayish tinge, often used in the livery of military aircraft.

Alice blue

Alice blue is a pale, delicate blue with a hint of gray, reminiscent of the clear, serene sky and often associated with the classic character Alice from “Alice in Wonderland.”

Aqua blue

Aqua blue is a vibrant, refreshing color that blends blue and green, resembling the clear waters of a tropical ocean.

Azure

Azure is a bright, sky-blue color, often described as the color of a clear, unclouded sky at noon.

Baby blue

Baby blue is a soft, pastel blue that is gentle and soothing, often associated with newborns and nurseries.

Baby blue eyes

Baby blue eyes is similar to baby blue but with a touch of warmth, as if infused with a hint of the morning sky.

Bdazzled blue

Bdazzled blue is a deep, shimmering blue with a touch of purple, suggesting a sense of enchantment and wonder.

Beau blue

Beau blue is a light, airy blue with a hint of gray, similar to a pale blue sky on a crisp, early spring morning.

Bleu de France

Bleu de France is a vivid, bright blue that is both deep and intense, embodying the historic national color of France.

Blizzard blue

Blizzard blue is a very light, icy blue with a hint of gray, reminiscent of a snow-covered landscape glistening under the winter sun.

Blue Munsell

Blue Munsell is a balanced, true blue that is calibrated to be visually consistent within the Munsell color system.

Blue NCS

Blue NCS is a shade specified in the Natural Color System, which is a scientifically standardized color system, and it’s a medium blue with a slight hint of green.

Blue RYB

Blue RYB is a traditional blue in the red-yellow-blue color model used by artists, with a deep, rich tone reminiscent of lapis lazuli.

Blue gray

Blue gray is a muted, sophisticated blend of blue with a touch of gray, suggesting the color of a stormy sea or a heavy sky before rain.

Blue green

Blue green is a color that straddles the line between blue and green, reminiscent of the deep, verdant waters of a mountain lake.

Blue jeans

Blue jeans is a casual, comfortable medium blue, much like the well-worn fabric of denim jeans.

Blue sapphire

Blue sapphire is a deep, gemstone blue with a touch of both brightness and depth, akin to the precious stone it’s named after, conveying a sense of luxury and elegance.

Bright turquoise

Bright turquoise is a radiant and vivid blue-green, similar to the color of a high-grade turquoise gemstone basking in bright sunlight.

Cadet blue

Cadet blue is a muted shade of blue with a hint of green and gray, reminiscent of the uniform of cadets and suggesting a certain understated formality.

Capri blue

Capri blue is a deep sky blue, evocative of the color of the waters surrounding the Italian island of Capri on a sunny day.

Carolina blue

Carolina blue is a light, soft blue with a hint of warmth, associated with the University of North Carolina and representing a cheerful, inviting hue.

Celadon blue

Celadon blue is a pale blue-green shade that has a subtle, soothing quality, much like the ceramic glazes from which the name is derived.

Celeste

Celeste is a sky blue that is soft and clear, often associated with the blue of the Italian sky or the color used on Bianchi bicycles.

Cerulean blue

Cerulean blue is a bright, azure blue with a calming, cool presence, reminiscent of a perfect day with clear blue skies.

Cerulean crayola

Cerulean crayola is a shade of blue from the Crayola crayon palette, having a softer and slightly brighter touch than traditional cerulean.

Cerulean frost

Cerulean frost is a muted version of cerulean, with a cooler, more subdued appearance that suggests a frosty morning sky.

Cobalt blue

Cobalt blue is a rich, intense blue with a slight hint of violet, akin to the color of cobalt salts used in fine artist’s paints and glassware.

Columbia blue

Columbia blue is a soft, airy blue with a dreamy quality, often associated with the official color of Columbia University.

Cornflower blue

Cornflower blue is a medium light blue with a touch of warmth, reminiscent of the flowers of the cornflower plant.

Curious

Curious is a bright, lively blue that suggests inquisitiveness and a sense of exploration, often vibrant and engaging.

Dark electric blue

Dark electric blue is a richer and more saturated version of electric blue, conveying a sense of power and intensity.

Dark sapphire

Dark sapphire is a deep blue that borders on black, similar to the color of a sapphire gemstone in low light, exuding sophistication and depth.

Dark turquoise

Dark turquoise is a rich blue-green, deeper and less vibrant than bright turquoise, suggesting the depths of a forested lagoon.

Denim blue

Denim blue is a classic, versatile blue with a slightly worn-in feel, much like your favorite pair of jeans.

Dodger blue

Dodger blue is a bright and vibrant medium blue, named after the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team, and is characterized by its energetic and lively hue.

Egyptian blue

Egyptian blue is a historical pigment blue with a slight greenish tint, reminiscent of the ancient blue faience pottery and art of Egypt.

Electric blue

Electric blue is a bright, intense blue that is highly saturated, giving it a neon-like quality that is bold and eye-catching.

Fluorescent blue

Fluorescent blue is an extremely bright, glowing blue, resembling the vividness of blue fluorescent lights or the radiance of daylight fluorescence.

French blue

French blue is a rich, deep blue with a hint of brightness, often associated with the color of the French flag and classic French fashion.

Glaucous blue

Glaucous blue is a powdery or frosted blue with hints of gray or green, evoking the appearance of certain plants and insects with a bluish waxy or powdery coating.

Han blue

Han blue is an ancient Chinese pigment that is a medium blue with a slight purple tone, reminiscent of the Han dynasty pottery artifacts.

Honolulu blue

Honolulu blue is a medium to dark shade of blue with a grayish tinge, associated with the color of the National Football League’s Detroit Lions.

Imperial blue

Imperial blue is a very dark shade of blue, conveying a sense of regality and importance, often associated with the concept of empire and authority.

Independence blue

Independence blue is a deep, grayish blue that is subdued and sophisticated, suggesting the solemnity of historical American independence.

Indigo dye

Indigo dye is a deep blue with a violet edge, resembling the traditional color of indigo fabric dye derived from the indigo plant.

International klein blue

International Klein Blue (IKB) is a deep, ultramarine blue, developed by artist Yves Klein, that is rich and highly saturated, with a unique luminosity.

Lavender blue

Lavender blue is a soft, pale blue with a hint of lavender purple, creating a gentle and dreamy quality reminiscent of floral fields.

Light cyan

Light cyan is a pale, greenish-blue that is soft and calming, resembling the lighter shades of the cyan spectrum.

Light turquoise

Light turquoise is a light, vibrant blue-green, more delicate and pale than the typical shades of turquoise, evoking the gentle shallows of a tropical sea.

Little boy blue

Little boy blue is a medium shade of azure, named after the nursery rhyme character, conveying a youthful and playful energy.

Maximum blue

Maximum blue is a bright and deep blue that is both lively and engaging, with a hint of green, giving it a vibrant, modern feel.

Maya blue

Maya blue is a unique shade of bright azure, historically used in the pre-Columbian Americas, particularly by the Maya civilization, known for its resistance to weathering and its vivid, slightly greenish-blue hue.

Medium sapphire

Medium sapphire is a balanced, medium-dark blue that strikes a middle ground between the brightness of a sapphire gemstone and the subtlety of a more muted blue.

Medium turquoise

Medium turquoise is a soothing blue-green color, less vibrant than bright turquoise but more intense than light turquoise, reminiscent of a serene, sunlit sea.

Midnight blue

Midnight blue is a dark, almost black shade of blue, suggestive of the sky at midnight, offering a deep and contemplative feel.

Morning blue

Morning blue is a calm, muted blue with a grayish tinge, evoking the tranquility of early dawn skies.

Navy blue (dark blue)

Navy blue (dark blue) is a very dark shade of blue that is almost black, associated with naval uniforms and conveying a sense of formality and authority.

Ocean blue

Ocean blue is a rich, deep blue that captures the essence of the vast and mysterious ocean, with a hint of green, reflecting the color of deep seawater.

Oxford blue

Oxford blue is a dark, inky blue with a sophisticated and academic feel, associated with the traditional attire of Oxford University.

Pacific blue

Pacific blue is a bright, refreshing blue with a touch of green, reminiscent of the clear, expansive waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Pale cerulean

Pale cerulean is a light, soft blue with a hint of green, evoking the gentle expansiveness of the early morning sky.

Persian blue

Persian blue is a strong, medium to dark blue with a slightly purplish tinge, associated with Persian art and culture, conveying a sense of luxury and tradition.

Pewter blue

Pewter blue is a muted, grayish-blue that has an aged, vintage feel, similar to the patina that forms on pewter ware.

Phthalo blue

Phthalo blue is a synthetic pigment that is intensely blue with a greenish cast, known for its high tinting strength and vividness in art.

Picotee blue

Picotee blue is a flower-inspired hue that features a gradient of blue with edges that may be tinged with a lighter or different color, much like the petal edges of a picotee flower.

Powder blue

Powder blue is a very pale blue with soft, muted tones, reminiscent of powdered blue pigments or the delicate blue of a baby’s nursery.

Prussian blue

Prussian blue is a deep, dark blue with a greenish undertone, historically used as a pigment in paints, and known for its richness and depth.

Queen blue

Queen blue is a medium shade of blue that leans slightly towards the teal end of the spectrum. It has a regal and refined quality, as suggested by its name.

Resolution blue

Resolution blue is a deep, vivid blue with a certain degree of brightness, suggesting determination and clarity of purpose.

Robbin’s egg

Robbin’s egg blue is a pale, greenish-blue that is soft and calming, reminiscent of the color of the eggs laid by the American robin, symbolizing renewal and spring.

Royal Air Force blue

Royal Air Force blue is a subdued shade of blue-gray, used in the uniforms of the Royal Air Force, conveying a sense of professionalism and reliability.

Royal blue

Royal blue is a rich and bright shade of blue, slightly lighter than navy blue, often associated with superiority and distinction.

Royal blue dark

Royal blue dark is deeper than royal blue, more intense and closer to navy, offering a more formal and profound aesthetic.

Ruddy blue

Ruddy blue is a muted blue with hints of gray and a touch of red, giving it a somewhat weathered and worn appearance.

Sapphire blue

Sapphire blue is a bright, deep blue that is both regal and classic, reminiscent of the precious sapphire gemstone.

Shadow blue

Shadow blue is a grayish-blue that is soft and subtle, similar to the color of a shadow under the soft light, conveying a sense of tranquility and understatement.

Sky blue

Sky blue is a light to medium blue with a clear, bright quality, like the color of the daytime sky when it’s free of clouds.

Slate blue

Slate blue is a medium-dark blue with hints of gray, resembling natural slate rock, and has a somewhat dusty and solid feel.

Space cadet

Space cadet is a dark blue that is nearly black, with a slight purple undertone, suggesting the vastness and mystery of outer space.

Spanish blue

Spanish blue is a vibrant, true blue that is both bright and deep, reflecting the traditional use of blue in Spanish culture.

St Patrick’s Blue

St Patrick’s Blue is a traditional name for various shades of blue associated with St. Patrick and Ireland, often a deep, muted blue with a hint of green.

Star command blue

Star command blue is a bright, futuristic blue, reminiscent of uniforms from sci-fi media, symbolizing exploration and command.

Steel blue

Steel blue is a shade of blue-gray, similar to the color of blued steel, with a tough, resilient quality.

Teal

Teal is a medium to dark blue-green color, resembling the color of the plumage of the common teal bird, blending the calming properties of blue with the renewal qualities of green.

Tiffany blue

Tiffany blue is a trademarked robin’s egg blue color associated with Tiffany & Co., the luxury jewelry retailer, representing elegance and exclusivity.

True blue

True blue is a shade of medium to light blue that is considered a quintessential blue, often associated with loyalty and faithfulness.

Trypan blue

Trypan blue is a deep, rich blue with a hint of violet, reminiscent of the colorant used in biology to selectively color dead tissues or cells. It’s a saturated, dark blue that conveys a sense of precision and scientific inquiry.

Tufts blue

Tufts blue is a medium shade of blue that is both warm and inviting, representing the academic spirit and pride of Tufts University. It strikes a balance between being bright enough to stand out yet subdued enough to maintain a sense of decorum.

Turquoise blue

Turquoise blue is a vibrant, medium blue-green that mimics the precious turquoise gemstone. It’s a refreshing and inviting color that evokes images of tropical waters and clear summer skies.

US Air Force Academy blue

US Air Force Academy blue is a muted shade of medium blue that embodies the discipline and integrity of the United States Air Force Academy. It’s a dignified color that carries with it a sense of duty and tradition.

Ultramarine

Ultramarine is a brilliant, deep blue with a subtle purplish undertone, originally derived from the lapis lazuli stone. It has a rich history in art, providing a striking and majestic presence that has adorned many masterpieces throughout the centuries.

United States Air Force blue

United States Air Force blue is a medium shade of blue-gray that symbolizes the strength and resilience of the Air Force. It’s a color that reflects the honor and commitment of the service members who protect the skies.

Uranian blue

Uranian blue is a pale, icy blue with a subtle hint of green, suggesting the ethereal and otherworldly beauty of the planet Uranus. It’s a color that captures the imagination and speaks of exploration and the unknown.

Violet blue

Violet blue is a rich, deep color that straddles the line between blue and violet. It is reminiscent of the last moments of twilight, offering a sense of mystery and depth.

Vivid blue sky

Vivid blue sky is an intense, electric blue that mirrors the unblemished blue of the daytime sky at its most striking. It’s a color that radiates optimism and boundless potential.

Y In Mn blue

YInMn blue, also known as Oregon blue, is a bright, vibrant blue that was discovered accidentally by chemists at Oregon

Yale blue

Yale blue is a dark, almost grayish blue, associated with Yale University and known for its elegance and deep heritage.

Blue Shades in Fashion

Shades of magenta are a bold fashion statement, offering a versatile range that can add a pop of color or create a sophisticated ensemble. In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, magenta finds its place as a hue that can be both playful and elegant. Here are six chic color combinations that harness the power of magenta:

• Magenta and crisp white for a fresh and clean contrast.
• Magenta and deep charcoal for a grounded yet vibrant pairing.
• Magenta and soft blush for a harmonious, feminine look.
• Magenta and mint green for a refreshing and modern twist.
• Magenta and rich gold for an opulent and luxurious feel.
• Magenta and navy blue for a classic and timeless combination.

Shades of Blue in Interior Design

In interior design, magenta is a striking choice that infuses spaces with personality and depth. Its versatility allows it to adapt from accent features to bold statement pieces, catering to a myriad of aesthetic preferences. Here are six stylish color combinations that showcase the adaptability of magenta within interior spaces:

• Magenta and soft gray for a contemporary balance of boldness and subtlety.
• Magenta and teal for a vibrant, energetic contrast.
• Magenta and warm beige for a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
• Magenta and emerald green for a lush, jewel-toned elegance.
• Magenta and mustard yellow for a playful, eclectic vibe.
• Magenta and matte black for an edgy, modern sophistication.

Color Meaning of Blue Shades

Blue is often associated with a sense of calm and tranquility, reminiscent of the serene sky above or the vast and peaceful ocean. My personal associations with blue are deeply rooted in its ability to soothe and provide comfort. It’s a color that encourages relaxation and contemplation, often used in spaces designed for rest or meditation. The various shades of blue, from the palest baby blue to the deepest navy, can evoke different emotions, with lighter blues being airy and freeing, while darker blues are more authoritative and strong.

Symbolically, blue represents loyalty, stability, and trustworthiness. It’s a color that people often turn to when they want to inspire confidence and security, which is why it’s a prevalent choice in corporate identities and uniforms.

How to Mix Different Shades of Blue Technically

So far, we have spoken about which colors to use to make different values of blue hues. There is a more technical side to color mixing, and we are providing the necessary information for various shades of blue below. This information includes the blue hex codes and the RBG values for each shade.

Charlene Lewis( Content Creator and Creativity Writer )

In 2005, Charlene completed her Wellness Diplomas in Therapeutic Aromatherapy and Reflexology from the International School of Reflexology and Meridian Therapy. She worked for a company offering corporate wellness programs for a couple of years, before opening up her own therapy practice. It was in 2015 that a friend, who was a digital marketer, asked her to join her company as a content creator, and this is where she found her excitement for writing.

Since joining the content writing world, she has gained a lot of experience over the years writing on a diverse selection of topics, from beauty, health, wellness, travel, and more. Due to various circumstances, she had to close her therapy practice and is now a full-time freelance writer. Being a creative person, she could not pass up the opportunity to contribute to the Art in Context team, where is was in her element, writing about a variety of art and craft topics. Contributing articles for over three years now, her knowledge in this area has grown, and she has gotten to explore her creativity and improve her research and writing skills.

Charlene Lewis has been working for artincontext.org since the relaunch in 2020. She is an experienced writer and mainly focuses on the topics of color theory, painting and drawing.

Learn more about Charlene Lewis and the Art in Context Team.