Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #070354, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep and mysterious shade of blue with a strong presence. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its low saturation and dark luminance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.75% red, 1.18% green, and 32.94% blue. This specific combination results in a color that evokes feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. Gulf Blue is often associated with qualities such as stability, trust, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design projects that aim to convey these attributes. Its dark nature can also lend an air of formality and elegance, making it suitable for use in corporate settings or luxury brands. The color is very close to black, and might be interpreted as very dark black.
The hex color #070354, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very dark hue. Its low lightness value results in poor contrast against standard light backgrounds, such as white (#FFFFFF). This insufficient contrast can make text and other visual elements difficult to read for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. According to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), sufficient contrast is crucial for ensuring that web content is perceivable. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Gulf Blue used on a white background likely falls far short of these recommendations, rendering it inaccessible. Designers should carefully consider using lighter text colors or employing background colors with higher lightness values to achieve adequate contrast and meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
A muted blue-gray color that offers a sophisticated look while maintaining decent contrast.
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color while still providing enough contrast for text.
Applications
Web and Graphic Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or footers, especially when paired with lighter text. It is suited for websites aiming for a professional and serious tone, such as corporate sites or educational platforms. However, careful consideration must be given to ensuring sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain accessibility. In graphic design, this hue can be used to create visually appealing posters or brochures, offering a sense of depth and richness. Its dark nature makes it ideal for designs where a calming yet authoritative presence is desired, such as in financial reports or legal documents, providing a sense of stability and reliability.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be employed to create a serene and calming atmosphere in bedrooms or studies. It works well as an accent wall color or for upholstery, adding a touch of elegance and depth to the space. When used in fashion, this deep blue can be a striking choice for evening wear or formal attire, conveying sophistication and refinement. Accessorizing with lighter colors, such as silver or white, can enhance the overall look and create a balanced aesthetic, emphasizing the richness of the blue without overwhelming the outfit. Its versatile nature allows it to be integrated into various styles, from classic to contemporary, providing a touch of understated luxury.
Data Visualization and Mobile Apps
Gulf Blue can be used in data visualization to represent categories of information. It can also be used in mobile apps to draw attention to certain UI elements in the app. When using this dark color for UI element the color should be tested on a wide array of devices to ensure accessibility compliance.