Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #050E58, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue located within the dark end of the blue color spectrum. In the RGB color model, it consists of 05 red, 14 green, and 88 blue. Its CMYK values are 100 cyan, 84 magenta, 0 yellow, and 70 black, which indicates its richness and depth, leaning heavily on the cyan and magenta components to achieve its distinct hue. Gulf Blue evokes feelings of tranquility, depth, and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various design applications. It is often associated with reliability, stability, and professionalism, making it suitable for branding and corporate designs where trust and credibility are paramount. Its dark nature requires careful consideration of contrast when used with text or other visual elements to ensure readability and accessibility.
The hex color #050E58, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance value. When used as a foreground color, it necessitates a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This dark blue hue will likely fail these contrast tests against many standard background colors, particularly those in the mid-tone range. Web developers should carefully consider the color pairings and provide options for users to adjust color schemes if necessary. Implementing text shadows or borders can sometimes improve legibility, but a lighter color is often a more effective solution for ensuring accessibility. Proper accessibility consideration ensures that content is usable by individuals with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or navigation menus, provided that the text is a contrasting light color like white or a pale yellow. Its depth creates a sense of elegance and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites or portfolios where a strong visual impact is desired. However, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user and compromising readability. Pairing it with lighter accent colors can create a balanced and visually appealing design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere in bedrooms or studies. As an accent wall color, it pairs well with neutral furniture and light-colored accessories. The color evokes a sense of tranquility and sophistication, making it ideal for creating a relaxing environment. Accents of metallic gold or silver can complement the blue and add a touch of luxury to the space.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used for elegant evening wear or professional attire. A dress or suit in this color can exude confidence and style. It pairs well with silver or gold jewelry and can be accessorized with neutral-colored shoes and handbags for a sophisticated look. The color is versatile and can be adapted for different seasons and occasions.