Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#05045A)
The hex color #05045A, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue, almost appearing black. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2% red, 2% green, and 35.3% blue. This significant bias towards blue gives it its characteristic deep blue hue. In the HSV (HSB) color model, it has a hue of 238 degrees, a saturation of 94.3%, and a brightness of 35.3%. Gulf Blue is often associated with depth, stability, and sophistication, making it a choice for designs that aim to convey seriousness and elegance. The name Gulf Blue may reference the color of deep ocean waters, and it is often used in corporate branding and luxury goods to communicate trust and quality.
The hex color #05045A, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against white text, failing WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text (AA) and large text (AAA). This color should not be used for text without considering its readability. To improve accessibility, pair it with very light colors like whites, creams, or very pale yellows for text. When using #05045A for backgrounds, ensure interactive elements have sufficient contrast. It is also essential to provide alternative styling options for users with visual impairments, such as allowing them to adjust the color scheme to a high-contrast mode. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the color combination to ensure compliance with accessibility standards, making your content usable by a wider audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e1f7a
A slightly lighter blue that still offers a rich, deep tone but provides better contrast against light text.
- #2962ff
A brighter, more vibrant blue alternative that can add a pop of color while maintaining some of the depth of Gulf Blue.
- #000080
Consider #000080 as an alternative color, because it is also a dark blue, but more common.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Gulf Blue (#05045A) can be used sparingly for header backgrounds or as an accent color to evoke a sense of sophistication and depth. Avoid using it for large blocks of text due to its low contrast. It pairs well with lighter shades of blue, gray, or white to create a balanced and visually appealing layout. You can use it to highlight key elements or navigation menus. The color can be implemented for hover effects to add a visual interaction for the user.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can serve as a bold accent color in a room. For example, it can be used for a feature wall or for decorative pillows. It works well in combination with neutral colors such as beige, light gray or off-white to prevent a room from feeling too dark or overwhelming. The color may also be used in combination with brighter colors to deliver a contrast.
Fashion Accent
In fashion design, Gulf Blue (#05045A) can be used for elegant evening wear or as a striking color for accessories such as scarves or handbags. It pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold or silver, adding a touch of luxury. The color itself looks mature and could improve the look of the wearer.