Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color code #031D54 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as 'Gulf Blue'. It is composed of 1.18% red, 11.37% green, and 32.94% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 3 red, 29 green, and 84 blue. This color falls into the category of cool colors and is often associated with feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. Due to its low lightness value, #031D54 appears very dark and is often used as a background color or for accents where a subtle yet sophisticated touch is desired. In terms of color theory, its analogous colors would be shades of blue and violet, while its complementary color lies in the realm of yellow-orange hues.
The color #031D54, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Due to its very dark hue, using it as a primary background color necessitates extremely light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color may struggle to meet these standards with many common text colors. Therefore, it is essential to use a color contrast checker to verify compliance. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, consider providing clear visual cues beyond just color to aid users with visual impairments. Furthermore, avoid using this color to convey critical information without redundant cues, as color blindness affects a significant portion of the population.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e3a64
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast for text and other elements, improving overall readability and accessibility on websites and applications.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray can serve as a more versatile alternative, offering good contrast with lighter elements while maintaining a sophisticated and professional look in designs.
- #003366
A deep navy blue provides a similar aesthetic to Gulf Blue but is generally considered more readable and accessible, making it a safer choice for backgrounds and text.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Gulf Blue (#031D54) evokes a sense of sophistication and depth, making it suitable for branding materials in industries like finance, technology, or consulting where trust and reliability are paramount. The deep blue can be used in logos, websites, and marketing collateral to convey stability and expertise. When applying this color in web design, balance it with lighter shades to maintain readability and accessibility. Consider pairing it with complementary colors to create visually appealing designs.
Interior Design
This color can create a serene and calming atmosphere when used in interior design. It can be applied as an accent wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to evoke a sense of tranquility. When incorporating Gulf Blue, ensure there's sufficient lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or somber. Lighter furniture and decor can help balance the intensity of the blue. This hue is especially suited to create a nautical theme or add depth in a home office.
Fashion Design
In the fashion world, Gulf Blue can be used for sophisticated evening wear or elegant accessories. It is an excellent choice for creating a classic and timeless look. When using Gulf Blue in fashion, consider pairing it with neutral colors or metallic accents to create contrast. This color can also be used to create a nautical-inspired look, combining it with white and stripes for a fresh and stylish appeal. Gulf Blue complements various skin tones, making it a versatile choice for clothing design.