Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color code #021C5C, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark and intense shade of blue. It is composed of 0.78% red, 10.98% green, and 36.08% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as rgb(2, 28, 92). Gulf Blue is often associated with feelings of depth, stability, and trust. Its dark nature makes it suitable for creating a sense of seriousness and professionalism. In color psychology, dark blues are often linked to intelligence, security, and authority. This color can be used effectively to convey a sense of reliability and sophistication. Due to its low luminance, it's important to consider contrast when using Gulf Blue in design applications to ensure readability and accessibility. The CMYK representation of Gulf Blue is (98, 69, 0, 64).
The hex color #021C5C, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its extremely low luminance value of 0.006 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against light 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. Gulf Blue would necessitate very light text colors to meet these standards. Designers must meticulously evaluate color pairings to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Using contrast checking tools is essential to validate compliance. For interactive elements, sufficient contrast is crucial to ensure that buttons, links, and other controls are easily distinguishable, making the user interface inclusive and accessible. When used for decorative elements, the contrast requirements are less stringent, but consideration should still be given to the overall visual experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2a4ba0
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against both light and dark backgrounds.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides a neutral alternative with better readability in many contexts.
- #191970
Midnight blue offers a similar aesthetic but provides slightly more luminance, improving accessibility.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Gulf Blue can be utilized as a primary brand color for companies aiming to project an image of trustworthiness, stability, and depth. Its somber tone evokes feelings of confidence and reliability, making it well-suited for financial institutions, law firms, or cybersecurity companies. In web design, it can be used for headers, footers, or background accents to create a professional and sophisticated look. However, designers should exercise caution when using it for body text due to its low contrast. In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent wall color in offices or studies to promote a sense of calm and focus.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used to create elegant and understated looks. It works well as a base color for sophisticated outfits, particularly in formal wear or business attire. It can be paired with lighter shades to create contrast or with complementary colors for a bolder statement. Gulf Blue is also a popular choice for accessories like handbags and shoes, adding a touch of refinement to any ensemble. The color's depth and richness make it a versatile option for creating a variety of stylish looks.
Application Design
Gulf Blue offers a rich and deep color for creating immersive user interfaces in application design. It works well in applications with a darker theme, providing a sophisticated and professional look. It can be used for UI elements such as navigation bars, side panels, and interactive components. The depth of Gulf Blue makes it ideal for visualizing data and presenting information in a clear and engaging manner, particularly when paired with contrasting colors for readability. Its calming effect can contribute to a more user-friendly experience, making it suitable for various applications, including productivity tools and creative software.