Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
Gulf Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #01135C, is a deep and somewhat muted shade of blue. It evokes feelings of serenity, stability, and depth, similar to the vastness of the ocean or the night sky. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0.4% red, 7.5% green, and 36.1% blue. The CMYK color model breaks it down into 99% cyan, 79% magenta, 0% yellow, and 64% black. Gulf Blue's low saturation and luminance contribute to its calming and understated nature. It's a color often associated with trust, authority, and intelligence, making it suitable for use in professional and formal contexts. The color is often seen as conservative and reserved, symbolizing loyalty and integrity. Its dark nature can make it seem mysterious and powerful.
The hex color #01135C, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Its extremely low luminance value of approximately 0.004 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #01135C for text requires an exceptionally light background color to meet these standards. In cases where Gulf Blue is used for graphical elements or UI components, ensure that adjacent colors provide enough visual distinction for users with low vision or color blindness. Providing alternative styling options, such as high-contrast themes, can further enhance accessibility. It is also recommended to avoid using #01135C as the sole indicator of interactive elements, as this can exclude users who may not be able to perceive the color difference. Proper implementation of ARIA attributes can help in such cases.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a237e
A slightly lighter shade offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar feel.
- #202a3b
A desaturated variant retains the darkness but is less intense, making it easier on the eyes when used extensively.
- #002990
A brighter blue which provides better contrast and readability against light backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
In web development, Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers, creating a sense of depth and professionalism. It is particularly well-suited for websites related to finance, technology, or corporate services. However, care should be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements placed on top of it. Consider using it for subtle accents, such as borders or icons, rather than large blocks of text. It could also be applied to data visualizations to highlight specific trends or patterns in a visually appealing manner. Remember to test the design with different screen sizes and accessibility tools to ensure optimal user experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be incorporated as an accent color in a modern or minimalist space. It works well with neutral tones like gray, white, and beige, adding a touch of elegance and tranquility. Consider using it for throw pillows, artwork, or a statement wall to create a focal point in a room. It can also be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver for a luxurious feel. Remember to balance the dark hue with ample natural light to prevent the space from feeling too somber. Use it for upholstery, rugs or window treatments to introduce a calming, sophisticated atmosphere.
Formal Fashion Accent
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used for formal wear such as evening gowns or suits, conveying a sense of sophistication and confidence. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories such as handbags or scarves to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, creating a luxurious look. When styling this color, consider the skin tone of the wearer, as it may not be flattering on all complexions. For example, those with warmer skin tones may want to pair it with warmer colors like gold or bronze.