Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The color #021356, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility and depth. It belongs to the blue color family and possesses a strong sense of sophistication and formality. In the RGB color model, #021356 is composed of 0.78% red, 7.45% green, and 33.73% blue. Its CMYK values are 99% cyan, 76% magenta, 0% yellow, and 66% black. This color is often associated with corporate branding, financial institutions, and technology companies due to its association with trustworthiness and stability. In color psychology, dark blues are often linked to knowledge, power, integrity, and seriousness. The hexadecimal representation of #021356 allows for precise color reproduction across various digital platforms, ensuring consistent branding and design implementations.
The hex color #021356, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against standard white backgrounds, making text and other elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. Using #021356 for text or essential interface elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios could exclude a significant portion of users. It is imperative to pair this color with very light shades to ensure adequate contrast, ideally aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools such as contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Consider alternative, lighter shades of blue or using #021356 sparingly as an accent color rather than a primary text or background color to ensure an inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention without compromising accessibility.
- #add8e6
A softer, pastel blue that offers a calming effect and is easier on the eyes, making it suitable for backgrounds or larger text areas.
Applications
User Interface Design
In user interface design, #021356 can be used sparingly for decorative elements or as a secondary color to highlight specific interactive components. Its depth conveys a sense of professionalism and sophistication, making it suitable for financial dashboards or enterprise applications. However, its use should be carefully considered, particularly in elements requiring high readability. For example, it could be used for the background of a hero section with white text or for subtle accents on buttons, ensuring that the contrast ratios are met to comply with accessibility standards.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Gulf Blue can be employed as a sophisticated choice for evening wear or formal attire. It exudes an aura of elegance and can be paired with silver or gold accessories to create a stunning visual impact. This color can be implemented in fabrics such as velvet or satin to add richness and depth to the garment. Designers may also choose to incorporate this blue into patterns and prints for a distinctive aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, #021356 can be used to create a sense of calm and depth in a room. It works well in bedrooms or studies where a relaxing atmosphere is desired. This color can be implemented as an accent wall or in furniture upholstery to bring a touch of sophistication to the space. Pairing it with lighter colors like white or beige will help balance the darkness and create a harmonious overall aesthetic. Using metallic accents can also enhance the luxurious feel of the room.