Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#040A53)
The hex color #040A53, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue with a slightly greenish undertone. It is composed of 1.57% red, 3.92% green, and 32.55% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:4, G:10, and B:53. In the CMYK color space, it is composed of 92.45% cyan, 81.13% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67.45% black. Its dark nature gives it a sense of depth and seriousness. The color is often associated with professionalism, trustworthiness, and stability. Gulf Blue can evoke feelings of calmness and serenity, and its association with the ocean can create a sense of vastness and possibility. Because of its darkness, it is important to use this color carefully in design, and to ensure sufficient contrast with other elements.
The hex color #040A53, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very 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. Given its low luminance, #040A53 will likely fail these criteria with most standard text colors. Therefore, it's crucial to pair it with colors like white or very light shades of yellow or green. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Using this color sparingly, perhaps for decorative elements rather than essential text, can also mitigate accessibility issues. Consideration should also be given to users with low vision or color blindness, who may find it difficult to distinguish text on this dark background.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
In web design, #040A53 can be used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Given its dark nature, it is imperative to use contrasting text colors like white or bright yellow to ensure readability. This color can also be used for highlighting important links or call-to-action buttons, provided that sufficient contrast is maintained. It is essential to test the color combination with accessibility tools to meet WCAG standards and cater to all users.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, #040A53 can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to create a calming and luxurious atmosphere. It pairs well with lighter neutrals like beige or gray, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. The color can be used in bedrooms or living rooms to promote relaxation and tranquility. When using this color in a room, it's important to balance it with lighter elements to prevent the space from feeling too dark or closed in. Proper lighting is also crucial to enhance the color's richness and depth.
Fashion: Evening Wear and Accents
In fashion, #040A53 can be used for evening wear or formal attire to create a sophisticated and elegant look. This color works well with fabrics like velvet or satin, and can be accessorized with metallic jewelry or accents. It can also be used in more casual settings for outerwear or accessories. When using this color in fashion, it's important to consider the skin tone and hair color of the individual wearing it, as it may not be universally flattering. Pairing it with lighter colors or brighter accessories can help to balance the overall look.