Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
The hex color #080558, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue, closely approaching black. It is composed of 3.14% red, 1.96% green, and 34.51% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to R:8, G:5, B:88. Gulf Blue's hexadecimal representation makes it a popular choice for designers seeking a deep, sophisticated color that evokes feelings of tranquility and depth. However, due to its darkness, it must be used carefully in designs to ensure sufficient contrast, especially when paired with text or interactive elements. Its properties make it suitable for creating subtle backgrounds or adding depth to visual elements.
The hex color #080558, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low lightness value of approximately 2% means that it has very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. To ensure accessibility, text or interactive elements using #080558 should be paired with very light colors, ideally near-white shades, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using tools to check color contrast ratios is highly recommended. Avoid using this color for critical information or actions without careful consideration of contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #282578
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible.
- #180598
A brighter, more vibrant blue that can be used to add visual interest while maintaining reasonable contrast.
- #382558
This color offers a better contrast ratio and is more friendly to users with visual impairments.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue (#080558) can be employed to create a sense of depth and sophistication, particularly in backgrounds or accents for websites related to technology, finance, or luxury goods. Given its dark nature, it works best when paired with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for header backgrounds with white or light-colored text, or as a subtle accent color in interactive elements.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue (#080558) can introduce a calming and elegant atmosphere to spaces. It is well-suited for accent walls in bedrooms or studies, providing a rich, dark backdrop that complements lighter furniture and decor. The color's depth can also enhance the perceived size of a room when used strategically. When incorporating Gulf Blue, balance it with warm lighting and lighter textiles to prevent the space from feeling too dark or cold.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue (#080558) can be used to create sophisticated and timeless looks, especially in evening wear or formal attire. The color's deep tone lends itself well to luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk, creating a sense of elegance and refinement. Accessorizing with metallics or contrasting colors can elevate the overall impact of the outfit, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing ensemble.