Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#03105A)
The hexadecimal color code #03105A, also known as Gulf Blue, represents a very dark shade of blue. It is composed of 1.18% red, 6.27% green, and 35.29% blue. In the RGB color space, it has the values (3, 16, 90). This color is often associated with depth, sophistication, and stability. It is commonly used in designs where a sense of trust and security is desired. Due to its low lightness value, it is crucial to use it carefully in combination with lighter colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Gulf Blue's darkness makes it unsuitable for body text, but it can work well for headings or accents when paired with a contrasting light background.
The color #03105A, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely dark nature. With very low luminance, it offers insufficient contrast against light backgrounds, making text and interactive elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it is imperative to pair this color with very light hues, such as white or pale yellow, to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Avoid using #03105A for crucial visual elements like buttons or links without careful consideration of its contrast against surrounding colors. Providing alternative high-contrast themes can also improve accessibility for a broader audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used sparingly as an accent color for headers or background elements to evoke a sense of depth and sophistication. However, it should not be used for primary text or interactive components due to accessibility concerns. When used as a background, ensure that text is displayed in a light color, such as white or a very pale yellow, to meet contrast requirements and ensure readability. For example, a website for a financial institution might use this color to convey trust and stability, but only in non-essential UI elements.
Interior Design Accent Wall
In interior design, Gulf Blue can serve as a striking accent wall color in a modern living room or bedroom. Its deep, saturated tone adds a touch of elegance and drama to the space. It pairs well with light, neutral colors such as beige, cream, or light gray for furniture and decor. Using metallic accents like gold or silver can further enhance the luxurious feel of the room. However, because it absorbs a lot of light, it is important to balance it with sufficient artificial lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or gloomy.
Fashion Accent Color
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used as a bold color choice for evening wear or statement accessories. A cocktail dress in this color exudes sophistication and confidence. Alternatively, a handbag or pair of shoes in Gulf Blue can add a pop of color to a more neutral outfit. Because of its depth, it's best paired with lighter, brighter colors or metallics to create a balanced and visually appealing ensemble. Consider fabrics with a subtle sheen to enhance the color's richness.