Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
Gulf Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #040E59, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It is a color often associated with sophistication, stability, and depth. In the RGB color model, it consists of 1.57% red, 5.49% green, and 34.9% blue. The low red and green values combined with the higher blue value contribute to its distinctively cool and dark appearance. This color can evoke feelings of calmness, trust, and professionalism, making it suitable for various applications in design and branding. Its depth and richness make it a visually compelling color choice when used thoughtfully.
The hex color #040E59, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low lightness value (very dark) means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background will require very light foreground colors to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given the darkness of Gulf Blue, achieving this contrast ratio with typical lighter colors might still be difficult. Therefore, careful selection of foreground colors and thorough testing with accessibility tools are essential. If used for important visual information, ensure that alternative visual cues or text descriptions are provided for users with visual impairments. It's generally better suited for decorative elements or backgrounds where readability is not paramount, or where it can be paired with very light, high-contrast colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e2987
A slightly lighter shade of blue which provides better readability and contrast with white text.
- #3f51b5
A more vibrant blue that can add a pop of color while maintaining some level of sophistication.
- #001a57
This dark blue is an excellent alternative which can be combined with lighter accents to create an elegant feel.
Applications
Corporate Website Background
Gulf Blue can serve as a striking background color for websites related to technology, finance, or corporate services, conveying a sense of professionalism and stability. Paired with crisp white or light grey text and minimalist design elements, it creates a modern and trustworthy impression. Furthermore, its depth can be utilized in data visualizations to highlight key trends and insights, making complex information more accessible. The color effectively sets a sophisticated tone, helping to capture and maintain user attention while reinforcing brand identity through a cohesive visual experience.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used to create elegant and understated pieces. It works well in evening wear, formal suits, or as an accent color in accessories like scarves and handbags. The depth of the color adds a touch of sophistication and can be paired with lighter colors like cream or gold for a luxurious feel. In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent wall color or in furniture upholstery to create a calming and refined atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone to add a touch of elegance to any space.
Mobile App UI
For mobile applications, Gulf Blue can be used as a primary color in user interfaces, particularly for apps focused on productivity, finance, or education. Its calming effect can help users focus, while its dark shade reduces eye strain during prolonged use. Gulf Blue can also be used to create visually appealing charts and graphs, making data easier to understand. To maintain accessibility, it is crucial to pair Gulf Blue with sufficiently bright text and interactive elements.