Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#010856)
The hex color #010856, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0.4% red, 3.1% green, and 33.7% blue. Its primary attribute is its deep, oceanic hue, evoking a sense of calmness and depth. Gulf Blue can be perceived as both sophisticated and mysterious, making it a versatile choice for various design applications. It leans towards the cooler side of the color spectrum, which can contribute to a feeling of serenity and stability. Due to its dark nature, it is often used as an accent color or a background for lighter text to ensure readability. Its unique character sets it apart from more common blues, offering a distinctive visual impact.
The hex color #010856, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its extremely dark nature results in very low contrast against standard light backgrounds, potentially violating WCAG guidelines for minimum contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Using #010856 as a text color on a white or light-colored background necessitates careful consideration of font size and weight, and often requires a much lighter color for improved contrast. When using Gulf Blue as a background, pairing it with very light colors like white, off-white, or pale yellow is essential to meet accessibility standards. Thoughtful color choices and contrast testing are crucial to ensure inclusive designs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Gulf Blue (#010856) can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or footers, especially in themes aiming for a deep, oceanic aesthetic. It is also suitable for creating visually striking call-to-action buttons when paired with a contrasting text color like white or a bright yellow. However, due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly for large blocks of text to avoid eye strain and ensure readability. Using it effectively requires careful attention to contrast ratios to meet accessibility standards and create a user-friendly experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue (#010856) can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as an accent wall color, especially when paired with lighter neutrals like beige or gray. It can also be incorporated through textiles like cushions, curtains, or rugs to add depth and richness to a space. The color is reminiscent of deep ocean waters, and can provide a sense of tranquility and expansiveness when used appropriately in a room.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue (#010856) offers a versatile option for creating elegant and professional looks. It can be used in formal wear such as dresses or suits to evoke a sense of sophistication. As an accent color, it can be incorporated into accessories like scarves or handbags to add a touch of refinement to an outfit. It pairs well with neutral colors like black, gray, and white, as well as complementary colors like yellow or orange, allowing for diverse and stylish combinations.