Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
The color #030057, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue, almost appearing black. It belongs to the blue color family. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.18% red, 0% green, and 34.12% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 96.57% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 65.88% black. The hue angle is 240 degrees, the saturation is 100%, and the lightness is 17.1%. This color is often associated with depth, stability, and sophistication. It evokes feelings of calmness and trust, though its darkness can also suggest seriousness or formality. Due to its darkness, it's not ideal for use as a primary color on web pages with default setups.
The hex color #030057, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely dark nature results in very low contrast against light backgrounds, making text and interface elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To ensure accessibility, pairing #030057 with very light colors, such as white or light yellow, is essential. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the contrast ratio meets accessibility standards (minimum 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid using this color for essential interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast. It's equally important to test color combinations with users, especially those with visual impairments, to gather feedback and ensure usability. Consider alternative, lighter shades of blue for improved accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A more vibrant blue that offers improved visibility and can be used as an accent color.
A deep, muted purple that can evoke a similar mood while offering better readability on various backgrounds.
Applications
Website Design
Gulf Blue, with its depth and sophistication, can be employed in website backgrounds or headers to create a sense of elegance and authority. When using it for backgrounds, ensure that text and interactive elements are high contrast, typically using white or light yellow fonts. It's particularly effective in the finance, technology, or education sectors where trust and reliability are paramount. It's also a nice base color for dark mode designs with light or neon highlights.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent color in clothing or accessories to add a touch of understated luxury. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, white, and black, and it can also be combined with brighter colors like yellow or pink for a more playful look. For example, a Gulf Blue scarf or handbag can add a pop of color to a simple outfit. Due to its dark nature it also works well for gothic or cyberpunk inspired looks.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, where it can be paired with soft textures and warm lighting to create a cozy and inviting space. It can be used as an accent wall color or as the primary color for furniture and textiles. For a modern look, combine it with metallic accents and minimalist decor. For a more traditional look, pair it with wood tones and classic patterns. It's a very serious color so apply it sparingly.