Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color code #080C4F represents a dark shade of blue. It is composed of 3.14% red, 4.71% green, and 30.98% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 8 red, 12 green, and 79 blue. This color is often referred to as 'Gulf Blue,' evoking a sense of depth and tranquility reminiscent of the ocean. Colors similar to Gulf Blue are often associated with sophistication, intelligence, and stability. Due to its low luminance value, this color is best used in conjunction with lighter colors to ensure readability and visual clarity. In web design and graphic design, it can be used to create a calming and professional aesthetic. The CMYK representation of #080C4F is 90% cyan, 85% magenta, 0% yellow, and 69% black.
The color #080C4F, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of 2.03 makes it a very dark color, resulting in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds typically used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. Gulf Blue fails to meet these standards when paired with common background colors like white or light gray. Therefore, when using Gulf Blue, it's crucial to select very light foreground colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very pale yellow to achieve sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Alternatively, consider using Gulf Blue sparingly for decorative elements or backgrounds, ensuring essential information is conveyed with accessible color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A desaturated blue that offers a more subtle and accessible alternative for text and UI elements.
A dark grayish blue offering more contrast than #080C4F, especially when used on interactive elements
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can be utilized as a background color for website headers or footers to establish a sophisticated and professional ambiance. However, it's crucial to pair it with high-contrast text colors, such as white or light yellow, to ensure readability and accessibility. Avoid using Gulf Blue for body text or interactive elements unless accompanied by a significantly lighter foreground color. Consider incorporating it in subtle design elements like icons or dividers, ensuring they are not crucial for conveying essential information, to mitigate accessibility concerns. Overall, careful planning is paramount when integrating Gulf Blue into web projects to strike a balance between aesthetic appeal and user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can serve as an accent color in a room, adding depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter, neutral tones like gray, beige, or off-white. Use it for painting a feature wall, choosing upholstery, or selecting decorative accessories like cushions, curtains, or rugs. Because it is a darker hue, Gulf Blue can create a sense of coziness and intimacy, making it suitable for bedrooms or living rooms. To prevent the room from feeling too dark, ensure there is ample natural or artificial light. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can complement Gulf Blue and add a touch of elegance.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue evokes feelings of elegance, class, and power, making it a perfect color choice for business outfits. Using it in a skirt, pair of trousers, jacket or blouse will instantly create an atmosphere of elegance, especially when combined with neutral colors such as black, white, or grey. When going for a casual style, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent color. Either as an accessoire, or as a print in a t-shirt, Gulf Blue brings out the best parts of a bright style.