Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#040953)
The hex color #040953, commonly referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and tranquility. It is composed of 1.57% red, 3.53% green, and 32.55% blue. This color is far from the lighter, more common blues and leans towards the darker end of the spectrum, providing a sense of mystery and elegance. Its high blue component gives it a cool, calming effect, reminiscent of the deep ocean or a twilight sky. In color psychology, dark blues are often associated with trust, stability, and knowledge, making Gulf Blue a suitable choice for conveying a sense of professionalism or authority.
The hex color #040953, also known as Gulf Blue, presents considerable accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very low luminance. When used as a foreground color for text or interactive elements, it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial. For small text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background is recommended, while large text requires a ratio of 3:1. Given the darkness of #040953, it is imperative to pair it with very light colors, such as shades of white or very pale yellows, to meet these contrast requirements. Failure to do so can result in content that is illegible for many users, especially those with low vision or color blindness. Tools for checking color contrast are readily available online and should be used to validate that the chosen color combinations meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Backgrounds
Gulf Blue's depth makes it suitable for backgrounds in websites or applications aiming for a sophisticated or serious tone. Its usage should be balanced with sufficient contrast in foreground elements to maintain readability. It can be particularly effective in headers or footers to provide visual anchors on a page. Furthermore, #040953 can serve as a base for creating layered visual effects or gradients, adding subtle depth to the overall design. Consider its use in data visualizations to denote a particular series or category, taking care to differentiate it sufficiently from other colors used in the chart.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #040953 can be used as an accent color in rooms, especially in spaces intended for relaxation or focus, like studies or bedrooms. It works well in combination with lighter neutral colors to avoid making the room feel too dark or oppressive. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative elements to introduce a calming and sophisticated touch. The color could also serve as a dominant hue in smaller spaces, such as powder rooms, where its intensity can be more easily managed. Coordinate textiles and accessories with complementary colors to create a balanced and harmonious aesthetic.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion industry, #040953 can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire to create a look of understated elegance. Its depth and richness evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication. It works particularly well in fabrics like velvet or silk, where its color can be enhanced by the material's texture. Consider using it as a base color for intricate embroidery or embellishments to add visual interest. In casual wear, #040953 can be used in smaller doses, such as in accessories like scarves or handbags, to add a touch of refinement to an outfit.