Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#050859)
The hex color #050859, commonly referred to as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue that resides in the blue-violet region of the color spectrum. It is composed of 2% red, 3.1% green, and 34.9% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:5, G:8, B:89. In the CMYK color space, its values are C:0.94, M:0.91, Y:0.00, K:0.65. This indicates that the color is primarily composed of cyan and magenta, with a significant black component to darken the shade. The hue angle is 236.3 degrees, saturation is 94.4%, and lightness is 18.4%. Gulf Blue evokes feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication, making it suitable for designs aiming to convey elegance and seriousness. Due to its darkness, it must be used carefully to maintain legibility and accessibility in visual communication.
The hex color #050859, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its extremely low lightness value results in very poor contrast against common backgrounds like white. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for readability, particularly for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. #050859 falls far short of these recommendations when paired with white, potentially causing eye strain and making content difficult to discern. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to use this color with very light, contrasting colors or to avoid using it for text altogether. Consider using it sparingly for decorative elements where legibility is not critical. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance with WCAG standards and to provide an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Gulf Blue can be used as a background color for banners or headers to create a sophisticated and professional look. Due to its dark nature, it should be paired with light-colored text to ensure readability and accessibility. It could also be employed for subtle visual elements like borders or dividers, adding depth without overwhelming the design. When using it for interactive elements, it's essential to provide clear visual cues for hover or active states, as the base color offers limited contrast on its own. Always prioritize user experience by testing color combinations for accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can serve as an accent color in a modern or contemporary setting. It can be used on walls, furniture, or decorative accessories to add a touch of elegance and sophistication. When using it in a room, it's best to balance it with lighter neutrals such as white, beige, or gray to prevent the space from feeling too dark or heavy. Consider using it in a room with ample natural light to enhance its richness and depth. Also, the color goes well with metallic accents, like gold and silver.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be incorporated into clothing and accessories to create a stylish and refined look. It can be used as a primary color for dresses, suits, or outerwear, or as an accent color for handbags, scarves, or shoes. When wearing Gulf Blue, it's best to pair it with complementary colors such as white, cream, or gray to create a balanced and harmonious outfit. Consider using it in formal occasions or evening wear to exude elegance and sophistication. It can be matched with jewelry that has silver or crystal accents.