Gulf Blue
General Information about #040853
The hexadecimal color code #040853 represents a dark shade of blue. It is composed of 1.57% red, 3.14% green, and 32.55% blue. In the RGB color model, #040853 consists of 4 red, 8 green, and 83 blue. This color is often described as a deep, saturated blue, reminiscent of the ocean depths or a twilight sky. Colors similar to #040853 are often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. It is frequently used in corporate branding and website design to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. The color's darkness also lends itself well to creating a sense of sophistication and elegance. Due to the high percentage of blue, it falls under the blue color family and has a cool tone.
The color #040853, a deep, saturated blue, presents considerable accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value (very dark) means that text rendered in this color requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. To ensure readability and compliance with WCAG guidelines, text using this color as a background or foreground must be paired with a very light color. White (#FFFFFF) or a light gray would be suitable choices. Insufficient contrast can severely impact users with visual impairments, making content difficult or impossible to perceive. Therefore, designers must use contrast checking tools during the design process. Additionally, avoid using #040853 for essential UI elements like buttons or links without sufficient contrast. Careful consideration of colorblindness is also crucial; ensure that information conveyed through color is also available through alternative means, such as text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A dark gray that offers a more neutral background option with improved contrast for lighter text.
A vibrant navy blue, great for digital interfaces and branding, offering a balance of depth and vibrancy while ensuring readability when paired with appropriate contrasting colors.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #040853 can be utilized to create a sense of sophistication and trust. It can serve as a background color for headers or footers, particularly for websites in the finance, technology, or legal industries. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with light-colored text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be used sparingly for accent elements like borders or icons, provided sufficient contrast is maintained against the surrounding background. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or critical interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios.
Interior Design
In interior design, #040853 (Gulf Blue) can be employed to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in bedrooms, living rooms, or studies. Paired with lighter neutrals like cream or beige, it can add depth and visual interest to a space. It can also be used for upholstery on furniture or for decorative accessories such as cushions and throws. When using this color in a room, it's important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or oppressive. Consider incorporating metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance the luxurious feel.
Fashion
In fashion, #040853 can be used in both casual and formal wear. For example a dress for an evening event, or a dark navy overcoat for cold weather. In casual wear, it may be used as the primary color for sweaters, t-shirts, or pants. Because it is a darker color, it can be used to create a slimming effect when used as the main color of an outfit. It may also be used in shoes or in hats. When using as an accent color, it can be paired with light colored clothing to create a dynamic effect.