Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #040859, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue with a slightly muted tone. It is composed of 1.57% red, 3.14% green, and 34.9% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as RGB(4, 8, 89). This color conveys a sense of depth, sophistication, and calmness. Its darkness makes it suitable for creating a strong visual impact, but it also requires careful consideration of its contrast with other colors, particularly text. The color is frequently used in branding and design to evoke trust, stability, and professionalism. Gulf Blue is a popular color choice for websites and print materials, especially those related to finance, technology, and corporate sectors. Its dark shade can also be used to create a luxurious and high-end feel.
The hex color #040859, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to achieve sufficient contrast ratios as defined by WCAG guidelines. Failing to meet these contrast requirements can render content unreadable for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, careful consideration is crucial when implementing #040859 in user interface design. Designers should utilize contrast checking tools to ensure compliance with accessibility standards, and they should provide alternative color schemes or adjustable contrast settings to accommodate users with varying visual needs. Furthermore, avoid using #040859 for essential graphical elements or controls without ensuring sufficient contrast with adjacent elements. Text links, icons, and form fields are specific examples where sufficient contrast is paramount for usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #e0e0e0
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color, offering a safe option for text readability.
- #333333
A dark grey which offers a similar dark feeling as Gulf Blue, but is more easy to combine with accessible colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #040859 can create a sophisticated and professional look, especially for financial or technology-related websites. It can be used for headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements. However, due to accessibility concerns, it should be paired with very light text and used sparingly. Ensure sufficient contrast with interactive elements like buttons and links. It can also be used for data visualizations to distinguish between different datasets, provided that the color scheme as a whole is carefully planned to maintain clarity and readability for all users. Consider using it in combination with lighter analogous colors for a harmonious and accessible palette.
Interior Design
In interior design, #040859 can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as an accent wall color or for upholstery on furniture. It can be paired with neutral colors like white or gray to create a balanced look, or with warm metallics like gold or brass for a touch of luxury. Consider the lighting in the room when using this color, as it can appear darker in dimly lit spaces. It is important to balance this dark color with sufficient lights.
Fashion
In fashion, #040859 can be used to create elegant and formal outfits. It is a good alternative to black and can be used for dresses, suits, or outerwear. It can be paired with metallic accessories or bright, contrasting colors for a bolder look. In make-up, this dark blue can be a strong eyeliner and alternative for black.