Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#01055D)
The hex color #01055D, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue residing in the blue-violet hue family. It possesses a low saturation and brightness, giving it a subdued and serious character. In the RGB color model, #01055D is composed of 0.4% red, 2% green, and 36.5% blue. This composition explains its strong blue presence and the limited contribution from other primary colors. Colors similar to #01055D include navy and other deep indigos. Due to its darkness, this color is not frequently used as a primary color in web design but can be effective as an accent color to convey sophistication and depth. Historically, dark blues have been associated with trust, loyalty, and stability, making them popular choices for corporate branding.
The hex color #01055D, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against typical light backgrounds, making text and interactive elements difficult to read for users, especially those with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use this color sparingly and pair it with very light colors like white or very pale yellows to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Furthermore, avoid using this color for essential visual cues without providing alternative indicators, such as labels or icons, to convey the same information. Proper evaluation with accessibility tools is essential to validate the color's usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Gulf Blue (#01055D) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Its dark tone provides a strong visual anchor, especially when paired with lighter content areas. However, ensure that text and interactive elements placed on this background have sufficient contrast to maintain readability and usability. Consider using a light-colored font or a contrasting background shape behind the text to improve accessibility. Also, avoid using it for large blocks of text, as its darkness can cause eye strain.
Branding and Logo Design
In branding, Gulf Blue can be utilized to evoke feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. It is suitable for logos, business cards, and marketing materials where a sense of authority is desired. When incorporating this color, balance it with lighter and more vibrant hues to prevent the overall design from appearing too somber. Using it as an accent color rather than the primary color can add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the design. Furthermore, ensure that all branding elements are tested for readability and accessibility across different media.
Interior Design
In interior design, this dark blue could be used as an accent wall in rooms with lots of natural light or pale furniture. It creates a statement and adds depth. It could also be paired with metallic accessories to create a luxurious, sophisticated space. The color can be used on furniture such as a sofa or a cabinet, but should always be contrasted with colors like white to balance it out.