Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #030554, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance. In the RGB color model, it consists of 1.18% red, 1.96% green, and 32.94% blue. The CMYK representation is 96% cyan, 94% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. This color is often associated with depth, stability, and sophistication. It is frequently used in designs where a sense of trust and reliability is desired. The color's darkness makes it suitable for backgrounds and accents in digital media and print, though its contrast with text must be carefully considered for accessibility. Gulf Blue can evoke feelings of calmness and professionalism.
The hex color #030554, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low luminance value of approximately 0.005 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast with lighter colors, a critical factor for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #030554 for text or interactive elements requires careful selection of a very light foreground color to meet these standards. Insufficient contrast can render content unreadable for many users. When using Gulf Blue as a background color, ensure that all text, icons, and controls have adequate contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the contrast ratio between different color combinations to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Also, avoid using Gulf Blue for critical interface elements without a high contrast ratio, as this can severely impact usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design and UI
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used as a background color for headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter accent colors such as pale yellows or light blues. However, it should be used sparingly for text due to its low contrast ratio. Consider using it in graphic elements or as a secondary color to add visual interest without compromising accessibility. In UI design, #030554 can define a night-mode theme or a dark-themed dashboard, making sure to use high contrast elements on top of it.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used to create a calming and luxurious atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as an accent wall color or in upholstery. Pair it with neutral colors like beige or gray to balance the intensity. Accessorize with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance the luxurious feel. When applied to larger surfaces, balance with lighter colors to make the space more inviting. Consider using Gulf Blue in smaller doses for items like throw pillows and lampshades to add pops of color without overwhelming the room.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Gulf Blue can serve as an elegant and striking color choice, especially for evening wear or formal attire. Its deep and saturated tone is well-suited for creating a sense of sophistication. Gulf Blue can be paired with metallic accessories such as silver or gold to enhance its richness. It's a perfect option for statement pieces like dresses, suits, or high-end handbags. When choosing Gulf Blue for everyday wear, incorporate it in smaller quantities as part of the color palette. For example, accessories such as scarves, hats, or shoes can add a hint of elegance to any outfit.