Gulf Blue
General Information about #000357
#000357, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with calmness, stability, and trust. The hex code #000357 indicates that the color is composed of very little red and green, with a significant amount of blue. This makes it a highly saturated and intense color. Due to its darkness, it can be challenging to use in design without careful consideration of contrast and accessibility. It is not among the official named colors in HTML or CSS, so using the hex code is the most accurate way to specify it. The color depth makes it suitable for creating backgrounds.
The hex color #000357, a very dark shade of blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance makes it unsuitable as a text color on a white or light background, as the contrast ratio would be far below the WCAG recommended minimum of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure readability and usability, it's crucial to avoid using #000357 for text or important graphical elements without a significantly lighter background color. When using this color, it is essential to perform contrast checks using online tools or browser extensions to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Consider using it sparingly for decorative purposes or in combination with high-contrast colors for visual interest. Always prioritize the needs of users with visual impairments by ensuring sufficient contrast for all essential content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for text and other important elements.
A brighter, more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color while maintaining sufficient contrast when paired with lighter shades.
A desaturated blue that offers a subtle and sophisticated look, suitable for backgrounds or elements where a softer visual impact is desired while still providing adequate contrast.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #000357 can be used as a background color for headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Its dark hue can also be employed in data visualizations to represent the highest values or concentrations, providing a clear visual hierarchy. However, it's crucial to avoid using this color for text or interactive elements without sufficient contrast, as it can severely impact accessibility. Thoughtful application of #000357 can enhance the visual appeal of a website while adhering to accessibility guidelines.
Interior Design
In interior design, #000357 can be utilized to create a luxurious and calming atmosphere in bedrooms or study rooms. It works well as an accent wall color or can be incorporated into furniture and decor items like cushions, curtains, and rugs. When paired with lighter shades of blue, gray, or white, it creates a balanced and harmonious space. The deep, saturated hue brings a sense of serenity and sophistication to any room.
Fashion
In fashion, #000357 can be used as a statement color for evening wear or formal attire. It can also be incorporated into accessories like handbags, scarves, and hats to add a touch of elegance and refinement to any outfit. When paired with metallic accents like silver or gold, it creates a striking and memorable look. The rich, deep color exudes confidence and sophistication, making it a popular choice for special occasions.