Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #050758, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep and saturated shade of blue within the blue-violet color range. It possesses a somber and sophisticated quality. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.0% red, 2.7% green, and 34.5% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 94% cyan, 92% magenta, 0% yellow, and 65% black. This color evokes a sense of calmness, depth, and intellect. Its darkness allows it to be used as a contrasting color against lighter shades. Due to its saturation, using it as a background color might strain the eyes if not properly balanced with adequate lighting and complementary hues. It is a versatile color for digital designs, branding, and print media.
The hex color #050758, also known as Gulf Blue, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low lightness value (approximately 0.02) means that it offers very little contrast against darker backgrounds, potentially making text or interactive elements difficult to perceive. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. To ensure accessibility, it is essential to pair this dark blue with significantly lighter colors, such as whites (#FFFFFF), light yellows (#FFFFE0), or pale greens (#98FF98), to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Additionally, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided; supplementary cues like text labels or icons can enhance accessibility for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e298f
A slightly lighter shade of blue that improves contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
- #2b3bb0
A more vibrant blue which can be used as an accent color that is more noticeable.
- #000000
If you want to keep a darker color for your design, black might be a good choice to increase the contrast.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Gulf Blue (#050758) can be used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Its dark hue works well with light-colored text and graphical elements, providing a visually appealing contrast. It's suitable for websites targeting professional or corporate audiences. However, ensure sufficient contrast for readability. As part of a broader design, consider using it for interactive elements, such as buttons, when paired with a contrasting highlight color. This helps to provide a clear visual cue to the user about interactive elements, improving the user experience. Consider how it plays with other design components.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be applied as an accent wall color in a study or library to create a calming and focused environment. Its deep, saturated tone evokes feelings of stability and intelligence, which can be conducive to concentration. Pair it with light-colored furniture and natural wood elements to balance the darkness and bring warmth to the room. Using it with metallic accents, such as brass or gold, can give a feeling of luxury and richness. This color is often used to give depth and elegance to a space.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used for creating evening dresses or formal wear that exudes elegance and sophistication. Its rich and deep tone is well-suited for luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk. Consider using this color for garments worn in professional settings. It is a dark shade of blue that gives a professional appearance. This color is also popular in the design of company uniforms. Accessorizing with silver or gold jewelry can complement the color and enhance the overall look.