Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#081558)
The hexadecimal color #081558, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. It falls within the blue color family and is characterized by its low brightness and moderate saturation. In the RGB color model, #081558 is composed of 3.14% red, 8.24% green, and 34.51% blue. This composition explains its strong blue hue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 76.47% cyan, 76.14% magenta, 0% yellow, and 65.49% black. The color is often associated with trustworthiness, intelligence, and calmness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aimed at conveying a sense of reliability.
The hex color #081558, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it necessitates a very light background to ensure 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. Given the darkness of #081558, it may be difficult to achieve these ratios with many common background colors. Therefore, careful consideration and testing with accessibility tools are crucial to ensure that content is perceivable for users with visual impairments. Avoid pairing it with mid-tone or dark colors. Using a very light gray or a pastel shade as a background will increase the contrast ratio and improve readability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e40af
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a webpage.
- #002366
Use #002366, a deeper shade of navy blue which maintains a sense of sophistication while providing a strong visual presence.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Gulf Blue's depth makes it an excellent choice for website headers and footers, lending a professional and trustworthy feel. It can be effectively used to establish a brand identity for financial institutions or corporate entities. The color also works well for navigational elements such as buttons and links, especially when paired with contrasting text colors for improved user experience. Furthermore, it's suitable for data visualizations, where its distinct tone can differentiate various datasets, ensuring clarity and preventing visual fatigue. Its association with the ocean and sky evokes feelings of stability and intelligence.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #081558 can serve as an accent color in rooms with neutral palettes. Think throw pillows, artwork, or a feature wall in a living room or bedroom. Its calming yet sophisticated nature can create a relaxing and elegant atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, and metallic accents such as gold or silver can elevate the overall aesthetic. When used sparingly, Gulf Blue can add a touch of understated luxury to any space, particularly in bedrooms and home offices.
Fashion and Apparel
Gulf Blue is well-suited for elegant evening wear or formal attire. A dress or suit in this color can project confidence and sophistication. It pairs beautifully with silver or gold jewelry and can be accessorized with neutral-toned shoes and handbags. The color's depth allows it to be a versatile choice for various events, from galas to business meetings. Moreover, Gulf Blue can be incorporated into makeup palettes, such as eyeshadows or eyeliners, to create a striking and memorable look.