Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
The hexadecimal color #081455, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of sophistication, stability, and depth. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.14% red, 7.84% green, and 33.33% blue. Its CMYK representation is 91% cyan, 76% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. This color is often associated with trust, intelligence, and security, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs where a sense of reliability is desired. Gulf Blue is a versatile color that can be used in various applications, from web design to fashion. However, due to its darkness, it is essential to consider contrast and accessibility when using this color in designs to ensure readability and usability.
The color #081455, a deep, dark blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or for text. Its low luminance value of approximately 1.2 means that it requires very light text to achieve sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure accessibility, avoid pairing #081455 with colors that are not significantly lighter. White (#FFFFFF) and very light shades of yellow or green are suitable choices. Tools such as contrast checkers can help determine if a color combination meets accessibility standards, ensuring that your designs are usable by individuals with visual impairments. When designing with this color, prioritize clear and legible typography and sufficient spacing to enhance readability further.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter blue that maintains a sense of depth but offers better contrast with darker text.
- #293462
A muted navy blue that provides a sophisticated feel and good readability when paired with light text.
- #3b82f6
A brighter, more vibrant blue that offers better visibility and is suitable for accent elements.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used sparingly as an accent color to highlight specific interactive elements such as buttons or links. Due to its darkness, it is best suited for backgrounds in sections where light-colored text is used. It's an excellent choice for websites aiming for a sophisticated or corporate aesthetic, providing a sense of trust and stability. Combining it with lighter shades of blue or contrasting colors like yellow can create a visually appealing and accessible user interface. However, avoid using it extensively for large blocks of text due to potential readability issues.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, Gulf Blue can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire. It serves as a sophisticated alternative to black, providing depth and richness to garments. It can also be used in accessories such as scarves or handbags to add a touch of elegance to an outfit. Consider pairing it with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its luxurious appeal. For a more casual look, Gulf Blue can be used in denim or knitwear, offering a versatile and timeless option.
Interior Design Accent
For interior design, this color can serve as an accent in a room. Consider using #081455 for a feature wall in a living room or bedroom, or in smaller doses, such as throw pillows or artwork, to add depth and sophistication to a space. Balance the darkness of Gulf Blue with lighter, neutral colors like beige or white to prevent the room from feeling too dark or closed off. Metallic accents like gold or brass can also complement the blue and add a touch of luxury. Avoid using Gulf Blue in small or poorly lit rooms, as it can make the space feel even smaller and darker.