Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color #021754, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue, almost nearing black. It is composed of 0.78% red, 8.63% green, and 32.94% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as (2, 23, 84). The color's darkness indicates a low level of luminance. In terms of color theory, Gulf Blue evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Its strong blue component relates to trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. It is often associated with corporate identities and financial institutions due to its reliable and trustworthy connotations. When considering color palettes, Gulf Blue should be paired with lighter, contrasting colors to avoid visual monotony and to ensure readability.
The color #021754, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast when paired with similarly dark colors, making text and interface elements illegible for users with visual impairments. To ensure inclusivity, it is crucial to use Gulf Blue sparingly and always pair it with sufficiently light colors, such as white (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of gray. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as per WCAG guidelines. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Avoid using this color for essential information or interactive elements unless accompanied by high contrast alternatives. Consider offering high-contrast themes to cater to users with diverse visual needs. Furthermore, never rely solely on color to convey important information; use text labels and icons to provide redundant cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #334155
A dark gray that can provide a neutral background with better readability when paired with lighter text.
- #273444
A dark blue with less saturation. This color is less intense and therefore a good alternative in modern design.
Applications
Website Design
Gulf Blue can be used as a background color in website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, ensure the text and navigational elements placed on this background have sufficient contrast for readability. Use it sparingly for interactive elements to prevent confusion and accessibility issues. In branding, Gulf Blue can evoke feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence. Combine it with lighter accent colors to balance its darkness and create a visually appealing aesthetic. The color is appropriate for financial and legal services.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery to add a touch of elegance and drama to a room. Pair it with lighter neutrals like cream or beige to prevent the space from feeling too dark and enclosed. Incorporate metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its luxurious appeal. Consider using Gulf Blue in rooms intended for relaxation, such as bedrooms or home offices, as it can create a calming and soothing atmosphere. Avoid painting all walls in the color.
Fashion Design
Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated base color for a winter or evening wear collection, particularly for formal attire. Its depth and richness evoke a sense of understated elegance. Combine it with contrasting colors like gold or silver for accessories, or create a monochromatic look with varying shades of blue. Use it sparingly for casual wear, as it can appear too formal. Consider the fabric's texture and sheen, as these can significantly impact the perceived color and overall aesthetic.