Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#080651)
The hex color #080651, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue with a subtle depth that evokes feelings of calmness and sophistication. It is composed of 3.14% red, 2.35% green, and 31.76% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a subdued yet rich hue, making it suitable for designs aiming to convey trust and stability. Colors similar to Gulf Blue are often associated with corporate branding, financial institutions, and academic settings. However, due to its low lightness value, careful consideration should be given to its use in user interfaces and web designs to ensure adequate color contrast for accessibility. The color can also be used to give an elegant feeling.
The hex color #080651, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text colors to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given its dark nature, careful selection of foreground colors is essential to ensure users with visual impairments can perceive content effectively. Tools that measure color contrast ratios are highly recommended during the design process. Furthermore, consider providing alternative color schemes that offer better contrast options, enhancing accessibility for a broader audience. Avoid using this color for elements where precise color differentiation is crucial, as its darkness can mask subtle variations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A neutral gray that provides a safer option for text backgrounds, ensuring better readability.
A more vibrant blue, that can be considered if you want to maintain a blue tone, but improve the contrast.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Gulf Blue (#080651) can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or sidebars, particularly for websites aiming for a professional or corporate aesthetic. Its depth adds a touch of elegance, but care must be taken to pair it with contrasting text colors to ensure readability. It's also effective for creating visually appealing data visualizations, where its distinct hue can help differentiate between data sets. However, its use should be limited to non-essential interactive elements due to potential accessibility issues. The color can also be used for button hover states if the original button is a light color to indicate interactivity.
Interior Design
In interior design, #080651 can be used as an accent wall color in spaces designed to evoke a sense of calm and sophistication, such as bedrooms or studies. It pairs well with lighter neutral tones like beige or light gray for a balanced and harmonious look. It can also be incorporated into furniture upholstery or decorative accessories like cushions and throws to add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Consider using it in combination with metallic accents, such as gold or brass, to enhance its luxurious feel. The color might work well in spaces where you want to create a calm and cosy atmosphere.
Fashion Industry
In the fashion industry, Gulf Blue can be used for evening gowns or formal wear, creating a sophisticated and elegant look. It works well when paired with silver or gold accessories. It could also be used as an accent color in casual wear, such as in sweaters or scarves. The color is suitable for both men's and women's fashion and is a good alternative to black. When creating graphic T-shirts the color is a great base for whites and yellow to make a great contrast.