Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#041653)
The hex color #041653, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep, saturated blue hue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its low lightness and high chroma. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.6% red, 8.63% green, and 32.55% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 95% cyan, 74% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. This color is often associated with trust, intelligence, and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and government institutions. Its depth and richness also make it suitable for use in luxury and high-end designs.
The hex color #041653, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its extremely low lightness value results in very poor contrast against standard light backgrounds. This makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to read text rendered in this color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Gulf Blue falls far short of these recommendations when paired with white or other light colors. To improve accessibility, consider using Gulf Blue sparingly for decorative elements or pairing it with significantly lighter colors, ensuring the contrast ratio meets accessibility standards. Tools such as contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color pairings for optimal readability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Interior Design - Accent Color
Gulf Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It's particularly well-suited for accent walls or furniture pieces, where its depth and richness can be appreciated without overwhelming the space. The color works well with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. In larger spaces, consider using Gulf Blue sparingly to create focal points, while in smaller spaces, it can be used to create a cozy and intimate feel. Accessorizing with textures such as velvet or wool can further enhance the luxuriousness of Gulf Blue.
Web Design - Branding
In web design, Gulf Blue can be incorporated into a brand's color palette to convey trust, stability, and professionalism. It works well for header backgrounds, call-to-action buttons, and graphic elements. However, due to its low luminosity, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other UI elements to maintain accessibility. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of blue, white, or yellow for optimal readability. Gulf Blue can also be used in data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, to differentiate data sets and add visual interest to reports and dashboards.
Beauty - Eye Shadow
Gulf Blue makes for a stunning eye shadow, especially for those with fair skin and light eyes. As an eye shadow, Gulf Blue can add depth and intensity to the eyes, creating a captivating look. It can be applied as a single shade for a bold statement or blended with other colors for a more subtle effect. When using Gulf Blue as an eye shadow, it's important to use a primer to prevent creasing and ensure longevity. Additionally, consider pairing it with a complementary lip color and a touch of highlighter to complete the look.