Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #040057, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue, verging on purple. It is composed of 1.57% red, 0% green, and 34.12% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:4, G:0, and B:87. In the CMYK color space, it is composed of 95.4% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 65.9% black. Gulf Blue evokes feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. It is often associated with the ocean depths or the night sky. It can be used to create a sense of calm and serenity or to add a touch of drama and elegance to a design. Its dark nature means it should be used carefully with very light elements to maintain readability.
The hex color #040057, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light text (ideally white or near-white) 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 to meet AA compliance. #040057 likely fails to meet these ratios with most text colors except for the very lightest shades. Therefore, it's crucial to perform thorough contrast testing using online tools before deploying this color in a user interface. If sufficient contrast cannot be achieved, consider using a lighter tint of blue or pairing it with lighter interface elements to enhance usability, especially for users with visual impairments. Careful consideration is needed to ensure that interactive elements like buttons and links are clearly distinguishable against this dark background.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Gulf Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and professional website design, particularly for businesses in the technology or finance sectors. Its deep hue can evoke feelings of trust and stability. To ensure readability, pair it with white or very light text and use it sparingly for backgrounds or accents. The overall design should emphasize clarity and user-friendliness.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used for evening wear or formal attire. The color exudes elegance and is suitable for creating a statement look. When used in clothing, it complements silver or gold accessories. Its depth of color allows for rich fabrics such as velvet or silk to further amplify the feeling of luxury and style. The overall outfit should feel both stylish and classic.
Interior Design
For interior design, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent color in a room with neutral walls to add depth and richness. It works well in spaces where a sense of calm and sophistication is desired, such as bedrooms or studies. Combine it with lighter shades of blue or grey to create a harmonious color palette. Metallic accents, such as brass or copper, can further enhance the luxurious feel of the space. The room needs a lot of lighting if this color is used.