Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
The hex color #011A5C, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue with a sense of depth and sophistication. Its RGB values are R:1, G:26, B:92, indicating a high proportion of blue and minimal red and green. In the CMYK color model, it's composed of C:99, M:72, Y:0, K:64. This means that Gulf Blue requires a significant amount of cyan and magenta to achieve its deep hue, making it suitable for print applications where precise color reproduction is essential. Gulf Blue evokes feelings of stability, trust, and intelligence, making it appropriate for branding and design where a sense of authority is required.
The hex color #011A5C, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Due to its dark hue, a light text color is necessary to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text, as per WCAG guidelines. When used as a background, #011A5C requires careful consideration of the foreground elements. Ensuring adequate color contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. Designers should test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey information; supplement it with text or other visual cues for users who may have difficulty distinguishing colors. Providing alternative text descriptions for images is also crucial to ensure accessibility for screen reader users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #29335c
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast for text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #002999
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray that serves as a safe alternative for backgrounds and text in case the usage of #011A5C is not suitable.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or navigation bars, creating a sense of depth and professionalism. It pairs well with lighter accent colors such as whites, creams, or even a contrasting yellow to highlight key elements. Use it sparingly for body text, as its darkness can strain readability. Consider using it in data visualizations to represent a specific category or range. For example, it can be used to indicate lower values in graphs or charts, allowing for a visually clear representation.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used as an elegant color for evening wear or formal attire. It evokes feelings of sophistication and maturity. The color works well when used in textured fabrics. Gulf Blue can also serve as a bold accent color in casual outfits. Combine with lighter tones to create a striking contrast, or used as the color of accesoiries such as scarves or handbags.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be applied as an accent wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to create a calming and inviting atmosphere. The dark shade of blue provides a sense of depth, making rooms feel more cozy. It pairs beautifully with light wooden furniture and neutral-colored textiles. Use it in moderation for larger areas, or use it for smaller elements such as decorative pillows and vases.