Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color code #050354, also known as Gulf Blue, represents a dark shade of blue-violet in the RGB color model. It is composed of 2% red, 1% green, and 33% blue. In the HSL color space, #050354 has a hue of 242 degrees, a saturation of 94%, and a lightness of 17%. This color is often associated with qualities like depth, stability, and intelligence. In color psychology, dark blues can evoke feelings of trust and authority, making them suitable for branding and design applications where reliability is paramount. The low red and green values contribute to its cool and calming nature.
The hex color #050354, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its dark hue results in low contrast against common background colors like white. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability, especially for individuals with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using #050354 as a text color on a white background falls significantly short of these recommendations. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #050354 with lighter colors for backgrounds or using it sparingly for decorative elements rather than essential content. Another possibility is to apply a lighter shade of blue or another color with accessible contrast as a text color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against light backgrounds, enhancing readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
A neutral gray that can be paired with #050354 to provide a balanced and accessible color scheme, suitable for various design applications.
Another alternative blue that offers a similar visual experience with improved contrast.
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
In web design, #050354 can serve as an accent color for headers, buttons, or navigational elements. However, it should be paired with lighter colors to ensure readability and accessibility. For example, a website for a financial institution could use #050354 for its primary branding color, coupled with white or light gray for text and background, creating a sense of sophistication and trust. Furthermore, it could be employed to create data visualizations, charts and infographics.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #050354 can be used as a wall color in rooms where a calming and serene atmosphere is desired, such as bedrooms or studies. The dark blue color can create a sense of depth and spaciousness. Accenting with gold or cream-colored furniture and accessories will create a luxurious and balanced aesthetic. Furthermore, #050354 can be used in textiles, rugs and decorative art.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, #050354 can be utilized for formal wear, such as evening gowns or suits, exuding elegance and sophistication. It can also be incorporated into accessories like scarves or handbags, adding a touch of depth to an outfit. Furthermore, #050354 can be applied in athletic wear, creating a classic style. To create a classic look, pair #050354 with white or cream-colored fabrics. For a modern twist, combine it with brighter hues like yellow or pink.