Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #031154, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. It is composed of 1.2% red, 6.7% green, and 32.9% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (3, 17, 84). This color is often associated with trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional websites. Gulf Blue can be used to create a sense of calm and serenity, while also conveying a sense of authority and expertise. Its dark nature lends itself well to creating contrast with lighter colors, making it effective for highlighting key elements in a design. However, due to its low luminance, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when using it with text or other visual elements to maintain readability and accessibility.
The hex color #031154, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light text (ideally white or a very pale yellow) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Given #031154's low luminance, achieving this ratio necessitates careful selection of foreground colors. It's crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance. Using this color for critical information or interactive elements without proper contrast can exclude users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. For improved accessibility, consider lightening the color or using it sparingly in combination with lighter shades.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used as a background color for headers or footers, creating a sense of depth and sophistication. However, due to its darkness, it's important to pair it with very light text and avoid using it for large blocks of text. It can also be used for creating a dark mode theme, providing a visually appealing alternative to the standard light theme. Gulf Blue can be used to highlight certain key navigational elements, such as buttons or links, though sufficient contrast should still be maintained to ensure proper usability and accessibility, especially on interactive elements that are clickable.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be employed to create a calming and luxurious atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies, providing a sense of tranquility. It can be used on walls or as an accent color in furniture and decor. When using Gulf Blue in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark and enclosed. Accents of gold or silver can complement the richness of Gulf Blue, enhancing the feeling of luxury. Natural light is crucial to maximizing the effect of Gulf Blue.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire, offering a sophisticated and elegant look. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories. It can also be paired with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, to enhance its luxurious feel. When styling Gulf Blue in fashion, consider the skin tone of the wearer to ensure that the color complements their complexion. Gulf Blue can be a striking alternative to traditional black or navy, offering a unique and sophisticated aesthetic, especially when styled with complementary hues.