Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #040959, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue. It is composed of 1.57% red, 3.53% green, and 34.9% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (4, 9, 89). The corresponding CMYK color code is (95, 90, 0, 65). This color is often associated with feelings of trust, stability, and depth. Due to its high blue content, it evokes a sense of calmness and serenity, but the darkness of the color also conveys a sense of power and authority. It is commonly used in corporate branding and designs where professionalism and reliability are important.
The hex color #040959, also known as Gulf Blue, presents accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light text (ideally white or near-white) 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. Testing with accessibility tools is crucial to verify that the chosen text color meets these standards. Avoid using this color for essential information if sufficient contrast cannot be achieved. Consider alternative, lighter shades of blue or pairing it with contrasting, lighter colors to improve accessibility and ensure a positive user experience for individuals with visual impairments. Using it as a text color is strongly discouraged unless paired with an extremely light background.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Header Background
In web design, #040959 can be used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter accent colors and minimalist design elements. The dark blue can convey trust and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites or financial institutions. Careful consideration of font color and size is vital to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be used for secondary elements such as borders or decorative accents.
Evening Wear
In the fashion industry, #040959 can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire. It exudes elegance and can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories. Pairing it with silver or gold accents can enhance its luxurious appeal. It can also be used in athletic wear or team uniforms to convey a sense of power and determination, and may be used in combination with neon or brighter colors to create contrast.
Accent Wall Color
In interior design, #040959 can create a calming atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It can be used as an accent wall color or for upholstery. Combining it with warm neutral tones and natural materials can create a balanced and inviting space. Use light-colored furniture to create contrast and prevent the room from feeling too dark. It can also be used in home offices to promote concentration and focus.