Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color #080C55, commonly referred to as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue that belongs to the blue color family. It is composed of 3.14% red, 4.71% green, and 33.33% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of 8 red, 12 green, and 85 blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 90.59% cyan, 85.88% magenta, 0% yellow, and 66.67% black. The color has a hue angle of 231.4 degrees, a saturation of 91.76%, and a lightness of 18.24%. Gulf Blue is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. It can evoke a sense of depth and mystery, making it suitable for various design applications where a strong yet subtle impact is desired. The color name suggests an association with the sea, further enhancing its calming and serene connotations.
The hex color #080C55, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and other visual elements difficult to perceive for users with visual impairments or color blindness. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color is unlikely to meet these standards when paired with typical light-colored backgrounds, necessitating careful consideration and testing. When using this color, ensure that you provide sufficient contrast with foreground elements by choosing very light text colors like white or off-white. Avoid using it for critical interactive elements without proper contrast adjustments. Tools like contrast checkers are essential for verifying the compliance of color combinations with accessibility standards. Using lighter tints or shades of this color or pairing it with high-contrast accents can improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used as a background color for headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter accent colors like white or light yellow for text and interactive elements. However, careful consideration should be given to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. It can be used to create a calm and professional look, often suited for corporate or informational websites where a sense of stability and trust is desired. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or as the primary background color due to potential accessibility issues. Consider using it in combination with lighter shades to create visual hierarchy and guide the user's eye.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. It can also be used in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories to add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Pair it with lighter neutrals like beige or gray to create a balanced and harmonious space. Use it in moderation to prevent the room from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance the richness of the color and add a luxurious feel. Consider the natural lighting in the room when using this color to avoid making the space feel too closed in.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used in evening wear to create a sophisticated and elegant look. It works well in velvet or silk fabrics, adding a touch of luxury to the garment. Pair it with silver or gold accessories for a glamorous effect. It can also be used in more casual wear, such as sweaters or jackets, to add a pop of color to the outfit. Combine it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a balanced and stylish look. Consider the skin tone of the wearer when using this color to ensure it complements their complexion. Avoid using it in large quantities if it clashes with the wearer's skin tone.