Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color #080B54, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue with RGB values of R:8, G:11, B:84. This translates to approximately 0.31% red, 4.31% green, and 32.94% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 90% cyan, 87% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. The color is often perceived as a deep, muted blue, evoking feelings of calmness and depth. Its darkness makes it suitable for backgrounds or accents, but it must be carefully paired with lighter colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Colors similar to Gulf Blue include navy and midnight blue, often associated with trust, stability, and sophistication. The hue angle is 237.9 degrees, the saturation is 91.1% and the lightness is 18.4%.
The hex color #080B54, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance value. This dark color results in poor contrast when used with standard text or user interface elements on a light background. To ensure readability and usability, it is crucial to pair this color with very light shades. A lighter color such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very pale yellow (#FFFFE0) would provide the necessary contrast ratio to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Additionally, avoid using #080B54 for critical interactive elements without careful consideration of the contrast. When it comes to accessibility, prioritize sufficient contrast in interactive elements and text to ensure that users with visual impairments can access content effectively. Always test the contrast ratio using online tools or accessibility checkers to confirm compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e298f
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast and visibility, while retaining a similar aesthetic appeal.
- #3b4cc0
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color while providing greater visibility and accessibility.
- #46496b
A desaturated blue that works well as a background color, especially with white text, ensuring good readability.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue (#080B54) can be used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter text colors such as white or light gray, and can be complemented with brighter accent colors to draw attention to important elements. In application user interfaces, #080B54 could be applied to side navigation bars or control panels, providing a visually distinct separation from the main content area. However, ensure sufficient contrast is maintained for accessibility. It is suitable for themes aiming for a professional or nautical aesthetic.
Interior Design and Fashion
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be utilized as a wall color in studies or bedrooms to create a calming and focused atmosphere. It pairs well with natural wood tones and metallic accents like brass or copper. In fashion, this color can be used for evening wear or formal attire, exuding elegance and sophistication. When incorporating this color into clothing designs, consider using lighter shades for accessories to create contrast and visual interest. It also complements well with neutral tones like beige or gray.
Branding
In branding, Gulf Blue can convey trust, stability, and sophistication, making it suitable for financial institutions, tech companies, or professional services. It can be incorporated into logos, websites, and marketing materials to create a cohesive and recognizable brand identity. The depth of #080B54 evokes a sense of established and confident presence, aligning well with brands aiming to project authority and reliability. When using this color, it is important to ensure that all elements are harmonized with the brand's message and values.