Gulf Blue
General Information
Gulf Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #03165A, is a deep, dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and tranquility. It is often associated with the ocean depths and the night sky, suggesting a sense of mystery and serenity. In color theory, it falls within the blue-violet range, positioned closer to indigo than true blue. Gulf Blue can be described as a tertiary color as it needs a mix of blue, red and black to be produced. It is a very dark hue, with low saturation and brightness values, making it suitable for creating a sense of gravitas and authority in designs.
The hex color #03165A, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely dark hue. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and other visual elements difficult to perceive 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. Gulf Blue falls far short of these recommendations when paired with typical light background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to use Gulf Blue with very light foreground colors, or to avoid using it for text altogether. Consider using it as a background color behind white or very light-colored text, and ensure a sufficient contrast ratio is achieved through tools like contrast checkers.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #192a6f
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #34495e
A desaturated blue that reduces the intensity and improves readability when used for text.
- #002147
Oxford Blue is considered a very close match that may be slightly easier to reproduce on some displays.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and professional look. However, it's crucial to pair it with contrasting text colors like white or light yellow to ensure readability. Avoid using it for large blocks of text, as its darkness can strain the eyes. Also, it can be used for decorative elements like icons and buttons, making sure they are large enough to be easily visible. Consider using it as the primary color for data visualizations, but use contrasting colors for data points to differentiate them effectively.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to add a touch of elegance and depth to a room. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, and white. Consider using it for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It can also be used for upholstery, curtains, or throw pillows to add a pop of color to a space. Avoid using it in small, enclosed spaces, as its darkness can make the room feel smaller. Use it in larger rooms with plenty of natural light to maximize its impact.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used as a base color for formal wear. It is a perfect colour for suits or dresses. Accesories should be bright and complementary in colour. In casual wear, it's an excellent choice for sweaters or jackets.