Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#08154F)
The hex color #08154F, also known as Gulf Blue, is a very dark shade of blue, almost black. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.14% red, 8.24% green, and 30.98% blue. This color resides within the cool end of the color spectrum and is often associated with feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Its darkness gives it a formal and serious tone, making it suitable for professional or elegant designs. It is important to note its low lightness value, which affects its suitability for accessibility contexts. The perceived color can also vary based on the display settings and ambient lighting conditions.
The hex color #08154F, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its extremely dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text 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. Gulf Blue will likely fail these tests with most standard text colors. Designers must carefully choose text colors and possibly increase font sizes and weight to compensate for the low luminance. Moreover, avoid using this color for essential interactive elements without thorough testing to ensure users with visual impairments can perceive them effectively. Implementing color contrast tools during the design phase is crucial to identify and rectify potential accessibility issues associated with this deep hue.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast for text.
A more vibrant blue that can be used to highlight elements.
A softer blue, suitable for backgrounds with dark text. Contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #08154F can be used for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and professional look. Its depth makes it suitable for backgrounds, especially when paired with lighter text or graphical elements. It can also be incorporated into interactive elements such as buttons or navigation menus, but careful consideration of accessibility guidelines is necessary. For example, using a very bright hover state can ensure there is sufficient contrast. This color could also be used in data visualizations to highlight significant data points in charts and graphs.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue (#08154F) can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and calming ambiance. It pairs well with lighter colors like beige or light gray for a balanced aesthetic. It can also be used for furniture upholstery, such as sofas or armchairs, to add a touch of elegance to the space. Consider incorporating metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance the richness of the color and create a luxurious feel. This color should be balanced with brighter colors to achieve visual balance.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, #08154F can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire to evoke a sense of sophistication and luxury. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories such as handbags or shoes. Consider pairing it with metallic or shimmering fabrics to enhance its visual impact. For a more casual look, use it in small doses such as in accessories like belts or scarves. The color works especially well with silver jewelry.