Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color code #020956, also known as Gulf Blue, signifies a deep, dark shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it comprises 0.78% red, 3.53% green, and 33.73% blue. This substantial blue component contributes to its characteristic depth. Conversely, in the CMYK color model, used primarily for printing, #020956 consists of 97% cyan, 90% magenta, 0% yellow, and 66% black. This indicates that it requires a significant amount of cyan and magenta inks to reproduce accurately. The low percentage of red and green contribute to it's dark appearance and give it a blue impression. Its dark tone makes it suitable for backgrounds or accents when paired with lighter colors. As a dark color, it absorbs a lot of light.
The hex color #020956, a very dark blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast against light backgrounds, making text and other elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for readability. For text to be accessible, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This dark blue likely fails to meet these standards against common background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair #020956 with much lighter colors that provide adequate contrast. Alternatively, consider using this color sparingly for decorative elements rather than crucial content. Tools like contrast checkers can help ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
- #808080
A neutral gray can provide a sophisticated alternative, especially when paired with brighter accent colors to maintain visual interest and accessibility.
- #0077cc
This shade is a more vibrant blue and adds brightness.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #020956 can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or footers, especially on websites aiming for a professional or corporate feel. It can also be employed for subtle accents, such as lines and borders, provided it's paired with lighter text colors to ensure readability. However, due to its darkness, it should be avoided for large blocks of text or interactive elements like buttons, where contrast is crucial. When used thoughtfully, this color can add depth and elegance to a website's overall design, contributing to a polished and professional user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can evoke a sense of depth and tranquility. It works well in bedrooms or studies where a calming atmosphere is desired. It's important to balance its intensity with lighter, warmer colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or cold. Accents in creams, golds, or light grays can complement this deep blue beautifully. The color can be used in upholstery, accent walls, or decorative accessories, lending a touch of sophistication and elegance to the room.
Fashion
In fashion, this shade of blue can be used in elegant evening wear, as well as in more casual outfits. Because of it's darker shade, it can be combined with bright, warm colors.