Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color #08135C, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of sophistication, stability, and depth. It is created by mixing small amounts of red (08), green (13), and a larger quantity of blue (5C), indicating its prominence as a blue hue. In the RGB color model, it has low values of red (8), green (19), and a more significant amount of blue (92). When representing this color in the CMYK color model, it translates to high percentages of cyan (87%), magenta (73%), yellow (0%), and black (64%). This color is not particularly vibrant, meaning it is not considered a stimulating or energetic color, but it can be used in web design or graphic projects to create a solid and somewhat serious or formal aesthetic. Its understated nature makes it a suitable color for backgrounds or accents. It is best paired with contrasting light or warm colors to create an impactful visual experience.
The hex color #08135C, also known as Gulf Blue, presents accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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 (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Tools like contrast checkers can accurately determine if the color pairing meets these standards. Using #08135C for interactive elements like buttons or links demands careful consideration to provide clear visual cues, such as a lighter hover state or focus indicator, to aid user navigation. The dark hue also limits its suitability for conveying information through color alone, emphasizing the need for alternative cues like text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity for users with color vision deficiencies. Careful planning ensures your designs are usable by the widest audience possible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Professional Website Background
In web design, Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or footers, creating a sense of depth and professionalism. Paired with crisp white text and minimalist design elements, it can evoke a sense of trust and stability. It's particularly effective for websites in the finance, technology, or legal sectors. To avoid overwhelming users, use it sparingly and balance it with lighter, more neutral colors. Consider adding subtle animations or gradients to add visual interest while maintaining a clean and professional aesthetic. Make sure the website is tested on different displays and screen sizes to ensure the intended color appearance is retained.
Accent Color in Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent color in clothing or accessories to add a touch of elegance and sophistication. It can be paired with neutral colors like gray, black, or white for a classic look, or with bolder colors like yellow or orange for a more daring statement. Think of it as a sophisticated alternative to navy, ideal for evening wear or formal attire. In menswear, a Gulf Blue tie or pocket square can add a subtle pop of color to a gray or charcoal suit. For women's fashion, a Gulf Blue dress or blouse can be paired with gold or silver jewelry for a glamorous look.
Interior Design Accent
Gulf Blue can be used in interior design to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It's especially well-suited for bedrooms, studies, or living rooms. It can be paired with light wood tones, soft fabrics, and metallic accents to create a luxurious and inviting space. Use it as an accent wall color or for furniture pieces to add depth and richness to the room. Consider incorporating Gulf Blue into textiles like curtains, rugs, or throw pillows to add a subtle touch of color. Balance the dark hue with ample natural light and lighter complementary colors to avoid making the room feel too dark or cramped.