Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#060E51)
The hex color code #060E51, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue with a rich and deep tone. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.4% red, 5.5% green, and 31.8% blue. This composition results in a color that conveys feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Gulf Blue is often associated with trust, intelligence, and security, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional settings. It is a color that evokes a sense of calm and reliability, and its usage can add a touch of elegance to designs. In terms of color theory, #060E51 belongs to the blue family, which is known for its calming and intellectual properties.
The color #060E51, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards for normal text, resulting in very poor readability. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair this dark blue with much lighter colors for text or interface elements. Using a lighter shade of yellow, orange, or even a very pale blue or white can create sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combinations meet the necessary contrast ratios (4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid using #060E51 for critical information or interactive elements without careful consideration of its contrast with adjacent colors. Using a different color, especially a lighter one, would improve the experience of users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter blue that offers better contrast and readability while still retaining a cool, calming feel.
A deep teal that provides a similar sense of depth and sophistication but with slightly improved visibility.
A dark gray-blue that can serve as a more neutral alternative while maintaining a touch of color.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used sparingly as an accent color to evoke a sense of trust, stability, and professionalism. It is well-suited for headers, footers, or sidebars in websites related to finance, technology, or corporate services. However, avoid using it extensively for text or interactive elements due to its low contrast against light backgrounds. Consider using it in combination with lighter, complementary colors to create a balanced and visually appealing user interface. Use as background for hero sections, paired with white text to emphasize important messages.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be incorporated to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or living rooms. Use it as an accent wall color, or integrate it through furniture, textiles, or decorative accessories. Pair it with lighter shades of gray, beige, or white to balance the depth of the blue and create a sense of spaciousness. Adding metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can enhance its elegance. However, avoid overusing it in small rooms, as it can make the space feel smaller and darker.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion world, #060E51 can be used for elegant evening wear, formal suits, or sophisticated accessories. This dark blue exudes a sense of luxury and refinement, making it suitable for high-end brands. When incorporated into clothing, it can be paired with lighter shades like cream, beige, or light gray to create a balanced and visually appealing outfit. Accessorize with silver or gold jewelry to enhance the overall elegance. For a more casual look, it can be combined with denim or other earthy tones to create a relaxed yet stylish ensemble.