Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
Hex color #090354, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue-violet, a color often associated with royalty, mystery, and sophistication. It falls within the blue-violet range of the color spectrum, closer to a deep indigo. In the RGB color model, it consists of 3.53% red, 1.18% green, and 32.94% blue. In the CMYK color model, it's composed of 89% cyan, 96% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. This indicates that it's a color heavily reliant on cyan and magenta inks. The color has a very low lightness value, making it appear very dark to the human eye. Its hexadecimal representation (#090354) is commonly used in web design and digital graphics to accurately represent this specific shade of blue.
The hex color #090354, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low lightness value (close to black) results in very poor contrast against typical light-colored backgrounds (white or light gray). According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. Text or interactive elements using #090354 on a white background would likely fail even the lowest contrast ratio requirements (3:1 for large text, 4.5:1 for regular text). To ensure accessibility, this color should ideally be paired with very light or bright contrasting colors. Avoid using it for text or important UI elements on light backgrounds. Providing sufficient contrast isn't just about compliance; it's about inclusivity and ensuring everyone can access and understand your content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a1466
A slightly lighter shade of blue offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
- #2b1f84
A brighter, more vibrant blue provides greater visibility and accessibility, especially for text elements.
- #222222
A dark shade of gray can be used as background color for the #090354 color to increase contrast
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used sparingly as an accent color for backgrounds or borders to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Due to its dark nature, it works best on large surfaces or as a subtle highlight rather than for primary text or interactive elements. When used for interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast with the background and provide clear visual cues for focus states. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of blue or contrasting colors like yellow or orange to improve accessibility and create a visually appealing palette.
Interior Design Accent Wall
In interior design, Gulf Blue evokes a sense of calm and tranquility, reminiscent of the deep ocean. It can be used as a feature wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to create a relaxing atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and linen, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. To avoid making the space feel too dark, balance Gulf Blue with lighter neutrals and incorporate ample lighting.
Fashion Design
Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated base color for evening wear or formal attire. Imagine a velvet dress or a tailored suit in this deep hue. For a balanced look, complement it with silver or gold accessories and delicate jewelry. It is important to choose fabrics that reflect light well so the color appears vibrant and doesn't fade into the background. Accessorize thoughtfully to achieve a polished and elegant overall impression.