Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#031163)
The hex color #031163, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue with a strong presence. It belongs to the blue color family, evoking feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.18% red, 6.67% green, and 38.82% blue. This composition gives it a strong blue bias, making it appear rich and intense. Colors similar to Gulf Blue often convey a sense of trust, authority, and intelligence, making it a popular choice in various fields, including branding, design, and even fashion. However, its darkness presents accessibility concerns and careful usage is recommended.
The hex color #031163, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against both white and light-colored backgrounds. This makes text and other user interface elements nearly unreadable for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Adhering 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 fails to meet these standards in almost any context with default settings. To improve accessibility, it should be paired with very light shades, and even then, thorough testing with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure readability. Using this color sparingly, if at all, is highly advised in interfaces that prioritize usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2a367c
A slightly lighter shade of blue offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #6b77ad
A much lighter blue is a far more accessible alternative with better readability on white backgrounds.
- #0a2472
This deep blue color retains a similar richness while providing a more distinct contrast.
Applications
Branding
In branding, Gulf Blue can evoke feelings of sophistication, depth, and trust. It is suitable for financial institutions, tech companies, or law firms aiming to project stability and expertise. However, due to its poor accessibility, it should be used sparingly, primarily for logos or graphic accents rather than extensive text or interactive elements. Its dark nature lends itself well to designs where a subtle, authoritative touch is desired, ensuring that other, more accessible colors dominate user interfaces for readability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue serves as a striking accent color. It can be used for a feature wall in a study or office, or as the color for decorative cushions and throws in a living room. Its calming yet sophisticated nature makes it a good choice for creating a peaceful environment. It works particularly well when combined with lighter neutral colors, such as beige, gray, or white, to provide balance and prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Gold or brass accents can also enhance its luxurious feel.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used to create elegant and timeless looks. A Gulf Blue dress or suit makes a statement, exuding confidence and sophistication. When used as an accent color, such as in accessories like scarves or handbags, it adds a touch of luxury to an outfit. Because it is a dark color, it is flattering for evening wear or formal occasions. The color pairs well with neutral tones like gray, black, and white, as well as metallic shades like silver and gold.