Gulf Blue

General Information about Gulf Blue

The hex color #080D55, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue within the broader blue color family. In the RGB color model, it consists of 8 red, 13 green, and 85 blue. Its CMYK values are 90% cyan, 85% magenta, 0% yellow, and 71% black, indicating it is primarily composed of cyan and magenta pigments, with a significant amount of black contributing to its deep hue. Gulf Blue evokes a sense of depth, stability, and sophistication. It is often associated with trust, intelligence, and authority, making it a popular choice for branding and design applications seeking to convey these qualities. Its darkness also lends it an air of mystery and elegance, making it suitable for both formal and creative contexts.

The hex color #080D55, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. When used as a foreground color, it requires a very light background color to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Gulf Blue's darkness makes it difficult to achieve these ratios with many common background colors. Therefore, it's crucial to carefully test color combinations using contrast checkers. Avoid pairing it with mid-tone or dark colors. Additionally, consider providing alternative color schemes for users who might need them. Using #080D55 sparingly and thoughtfully is essential for inclusive design. Ensuring sufficient contrast is not only about meeting legal requirements but also about providing a usable experience for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness.

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Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Backgrounds

  Gulf Blue, with its deep and sophisticated tone, is exceptionally suited for backgrounds in website designs aiming for a professional or corporate aesthetic. Its richness adds depth, making content stand out effectively. However, designers must pair it with contrasting text colors like white or very light grays to ensure readability and accessibility. Furthermore, it works well in combination with lighter blues or teals to create layered visual effects, enhancing the overall user experience. Consider using it in headers, footers, or as a subtle background for call-to-action sections to draw attention without overwhelming the viewer.

• Fashion Design

  In the realm of fashion, Gulf Blue can be utilized to create stunning evening wear or formal attire. Its depth and elegance make it a perfect choice for dresses, suits, or accessories. When incorporated into textiles like velvet or silk, the color gains an added dimension of luxury. Designers can use Gulf Blue as the primary color or as an accent to complement lighter shades. Pairing it with metallic accents like gold or silver can further elevate the outfit's sophistication. It works especially well for creating a sense of mystery and allure.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Gulf Blue brings a sense of calm and sophistication to any space. It works particularly well in bedrooms or living rooms where a relaxing atmosphere is desired. This color can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accents such as cushions and curtains. Gulf Blue pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white, creating a balanced and harmonious look. To add a touch of vibrancy, consider incorporating pops of complementary colors like orange or yellow. Furthermore, the use of textures such as wood or metal can enhance the overall aesthetic.

Complementary color

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