Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#04045A)
The hex color #04045A, commonly known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue that falls within the blue color family. It is composed of 1.57% red, 1.57% green, and 35.29% blue. In the RGB color space, this equates to R:4, G:4, B:90. The corresponding CMYK values are C:96, M:96, Y:0, K:65. This indicates that Gulf Blue is a very saturated and dark color. The hue angle is 240 degrees, the saturation is 96.4% and the lightness is 18.4%. Due to its high blue content, it is perceived as a cool and calming color, often associated with trust, stability, and depth. It's important to consider its darkness when using it in designs, particularly in terms of contrast and accessibility.
The hex color #04045A, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark hue. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially making text or interactive elements difficult for users with visual impairments to discern. To ensure inclusivity, it is crucial to use #04045A sparingly for text or important UI elements. When used, it should be paired with very light colors such as #FFFFFF (white) or #FAF9F6 to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Thoughtful application of this color, considering font sizes and weight, can mitigate some accessibility concerns. Avoid using it for crucial information or interactive components without adequate contrast.
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Applications
Website Backgrounds
Gulf Blue, with its deep and calming hue, is an excellent choice for website backgrounds in the finance or technology sectors. Its association with trustworthiness and stability can instill confidence in users. When used in website design, pair it with a contrasting color such as white or a light gray for text and interactive elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Limit its use to backgrounds or subtle accents to avoid overwhelming the user. This color also works well in creating a professional and sophisticated brand identity. It should be applied thoughtfully and tested across various devices and screen resolutions to maintain visual consistency.
Fashion Design
Gulf Blue offers a sophisticated touch to fashion designs, particularly in evening wear or formal attire. Its depth and richness make it a standout color for dresses, suits, or accessories. Consider using it as the primary color for a statement piece or as an accent color to complement lighter shades. In fashion, this color conveys elegance and confidence, suitable for upscale brands and collections. Fabrics like velvet or silk can enhance its luxurious appeal. However, it's important to consider lighting conditions, as the color may appear darker indoors. Combine with metallics or jewel tones for added visual interest.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can bring a sense of tranquility and depth to living spaces. It's well-suited for accent walls in bedrooms or studies, creating a calming atmosphere. This color works particularly well when paired with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, allowing it to stand out without overwhelming the space. Consider using it in combination with natural materials like wood or stone for a balanced and harmonious design. Soft textures like velvet or wool can enhance its richness. Appropriate lighting is crucial to showcase its depth. Avoid using it in small, poorly lit rooms, as it may make the space feel cramped.