Today, we will be discussing the differences between two popular shades of blue: baby blue and royal blue.
While both colors display a calming hue, there are many differences between them.
We will explore these differences in baby blue vs royal blue to help you decide which one is right for your project or design – so read on below!
Differences Between Baby Blue vs Royal Blue
When it comes to comparing baby blue and royal blue, it’s important to understand the many differences between these two shades of blue.
Both colors display a calming hue, but they are not the same. Let’s take a closer look at their individual characteristics:
Baby Blue
Baby blue is a pale, subdued and almost powdery blue with hints of gray. It creates feelings of serenity and peace, often associated with tranquility, contentment and timelessness.
This blue hue also evokes a sense of freshness and lightness that can bring an airy feel to any interior or exterior space.
Royal Blue
Royal blue is much bolder in comparison to baby blue – deep and rich in hue. This color is often associated with power and sophistication since it represents elegance and majesty.
Royal blue has been historically linked to royalty for centuries as well as being popular among athletes due to its strong energy-inducing properties.
Hex Codes
- Baby Blue’s Hex Code: #89CFF0
- Royal Blue’s Hex Code: #002366 (alternatively #4169e1)
Psychological Connotations of Each Color: What Each Color Communicates
The psychological connotations behind color can be powerful when used to influence behavior or mood.
Baby blue and royal blue each carry a unique set of meanings, especially when it comes to communicating emotions.
Let’s take a look at the psychological connotations of both colors:
Baby Blue
Baby blue is generally associated with being tranquil and calming, as well as having a sense of hope and optimism.
The blue hue also evokes feelings of trust, reliability, and serenity, which can be beneficial in creating an environment where people feel comfortable.
Royal Blue
Royal blue is associated with power, authority, and confidence due to its deep hue and majestic feel.
This blue shade can also lend feelings of excitement and energy while inspiring feelings of success and ambition.
Royal blue is often seen as an overall positive color that creates inner strength in individuals who see it.
Popular Usage
The popularity of baby blue and royal blue make them key colors in the fashion, design, and home decor industries.
Let’s take a look at how these hues are often used:
Fashion
Baby blue has become popular in recent years as many brands have been featuring it in their designs.
Whether it’s clothing or accessories, the pale blue hue brings a subtle touch of sophistication to any outfit.
When it comes to royal blue, the color is often seen as a timeless hue that will never go out of style. It is a great option for more formal occasions such as weddings or parties.
Design
Baby blue can be seen across various websites, from small personal blogs to large corporate entities.
Because of its calming and serene qualities, designers usually employ this color when creating sites that aim to promote peacefulness or tranquility.
Royal blue can be found mostly on websites for financial institutions looking to project an air of reliability and trustworthiness.
Home Decor
When it comes to home decor, both baby blue and royal blue can be utilized to produce stunning visual effects.
The former is often used for bedrooms as its soothing properties help occupants relax and unwind after a long day.
Royal blue is commonly used for living areas such as dining rooms since its regal vibe creates an elegant atmosphere that people can enjoy while gathering together with family or friends.
Origins of Each Color
Baby blue and royal blue are two shades with interesting histories. Let’s explore the origins of these popular shades of blue and how they came to be.
Baby Blue
The origin of baby blue dates back to the 1700s, during a period when light blues were becoming increasingly popular in Europe due to their association with luxury and sophistication.
The blue shade was further popularized by famous fashion designers who incorporated it into their work, eventually leading to a surge in demand for baby blue products in the early 1900s.
Royal Blue
Royal blue has been around since ancient times, but it first gained widespread recognition in 1810 when a prominent French dye-maker created a deep dark shade that became known as “royal blue”.
Eventually, this particular blue hue began appearing on everything from women’s fashion garments to military uniforms.
It wasn’t until the 1960s that royal blue surged in popularity again, this time becoming a symbol of strength, power, and success.
FAQs About Baby Blue vs Royal Blue
How do baby blue and royal blue differ in terms of tone?
While both colors are shades of blue, baby blue is a much lighter hue with a touch of gray, while royal blue is a darker, deeper shade.
Is one color more popular than the other?
Baby blue’s popularity has grown in recent years, but when it comes to timelessness and versatility, royal blue is generally seen as the superior option.
What type of occasions can each color be used for?
Baby blue pairs best with more casual settings such as weddings or parties, while royal blue is often seen as a great choice for more formal occasions such as business meetings or corporate events.

Daniela Corango loves to see the color in all things. She’s passionate about fashion, and interior design. She recently moved to New York and lives with her 2 dogs Peppy and Cinnamon.