Gulf Blue

General Information about Gulf Blue

The hex color #040659, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.57% red, 2.35% green, and 34.9% blue. This color is often associated with trust, authority, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design in industries such as finance, technology, and education. Gulf Blue is part of the broader family of blue colors, which are known for their calming and relaxing effects. However, due to its low lightness value, #040659 requires careful consideration in its application to ensure sufficient contrast with other elements, particularly text, to maintain accessibility standards. It’s a versatile color that can be used in a variety of contexts, from web design to interior decor, provided its limitations are taken into account.

The hex color #040659, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light text 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 (14pt bold or 18pt regular). This dark blue likely fails to meet these standards with most standard text colors, necessitating careful selection of a very light, ideally white or near-white, text color. When using this color for interactive elements such as buttons or links, it's crucial to test the color contrast thoroughly using accessibility evaluation tools to guarantee that users with visual impairments can perceive and interact with the content effectively. Consider also providing alternative styling options for users who may need to customize the display for better readability.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Design

  In web development, #040659 can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look. It is suitable for website backgrounds, headers, and footers, especially for companies in the finance, technology, or education sectors. For example, a university website could use this color as the primary color for its branding, conveying a sense of authority and trust. Combining it with lighter shades of blue or white can create a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. However, due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly for text to avoid readability issues and comply with accessibility standards. It is recommended to always check the contrast ratio between the background and text colors to ensure that the website is accessible to all users.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. It can be used as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery, complemented by lighter shades of blue, gray, or white to balance the darkness. For example, a bedroom with walls painted in #040659 could be furnished with light gray bedding and white accents to create a relaxing and inviting space. The color can also be used in smaller doses, such as for decorative pillows, curtains, or artwork, to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a room.

• Fashion Design

  In fashion, this deep blue can be used to create elegant and timeless looks. It can be used for dresses, suits, or outerwear, conveying a sense of sophistication and confidence. Pairing it with lighter colors such as white, cream, or light gray can create a balanced and stylish outfit. For example, a navy blue dress can be accessorized with white heels and a clutch for a classic and chic look. The color can also be used for accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry, adding a touch of depth and richness to an ensemble. It is a versatile color that can be worn for both formal and casual occasions, making it a staple in any wardrobe.

Complementary color

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