Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color #031254, also referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue that falls into the blue-violet color range. It is composed of 1.18% red, 7.06% green, and 32.94% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:3, G:18, and B:84. The CMYK representation is C:96, M:79, Y:0, K:67. The hue angle is 225.6 degrees, the saturation is 97.3%, and the lightness is 17.1% in the HSL color space. #031254 is often associated with feelings of depth, sophistication, and trust, and it is a color that is most likely to be used in the professional context. Because of its dark nature, it is important to consider contrast ratios when using it in design, especially for text or interactive elements to make the content accesible to the users.
The hex color #031254, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely low luminance value of 0.005 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. When using #031254 for text or interactive elements, careful consideration must be given to the background color to meet these contrast requirements. Lighter shades of yellow, orange, or even very pale blues might provide adequate contrast, but these should be tested rigorously with accessibility tools. Avoid pairing it with dark or mid-tone backgrounds, as this will result in illegible text and a poor user experience. Proper use of ARIA attributes can also enhance accessibility for screen reader users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated accent color in website designs, especially for headers or navigation bars, providing a sense of depth and professionalism. In branding, it can evoke feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence, making it suitable for financial institutions or tech companies. When used sparingly in user interfaces, it can draw attention to important elements without overwhelming the user. This color works particularly well in dark mode designs, where its richness can truly shine. The deep hue of the color may create a modern yet serious ambiance when used for backgrounds of web applications.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used to create a calming and elegant atmosphere in bedrooms or studies. It pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. As an accent color, it can be incorporated through furniture, artwork, or decorative pillows to add depth and sophistication to a space. This color can be particularly striking when used in velvet or other textured fabrics, enhancing its luxurious feel. Consider painting a single accent wall to create a focal point in a room.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, a Gulf Blue dress or suit can make a powerful statement, conveying confidence and sophistication. It works well for evening wear or formal occasions, especially when paired with metallic accessories like silver or gold. As an accent color, it can be used in scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a touch of elegance to any outfit. The color is flattering on a variety of skin tones and can be easily incorporated into both casual and professional wardrobes. A Gulf Blue blazer can also be worn for a corporate event, but could also add an interesting hue to a casual outfit.