Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#09174E)
The hex color code #09174E, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue located in the darker region of the color spectrum. It is composed of 3.53% red, 9.02% green, and 30.59% blue. In the RGB color model, it's represented as (9, 23, 78). This color tends to evoke feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. It is not a very bright color, having a low luminance value. Gulf Blue is often associated with trust, stability, and professionalism, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and website design. The color name suggests connections to the ocean and vastness, further adding to its evocative nature. When used effectively, #09174E can bring a sense of elegance and calm to various designs.
The hex color #09174E, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance value. This deep, saturated blue falls into the darker end of the color spectrum, leading to insufficient contrast when paired with text or other interface elements. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Gulf Blue often fails to meet these standards, particularly when used with lighter shades of gray or other dark colors. Therefore, when incorporating #09174E into designs, it is crucial to carefully select foreground colors that offer sufficient contrast. Opting for bright, highly contrasting colors like white or very light yellows can improve readability and ensure that content remains accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, consider providing alternative color schemes or user-adjustable contrast settings to accommodate individual preferences and needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast against white backgrounds.
A more muted blue that provides a softer look and better accessibility when used for text.
A darker shade that can be used as a background color with white text for better readability.
Applications
Website Design
Gulf Blue (#09174E) can serve as a powerful base color for website backgrounds, lending a sense of depth and sophistication. When used sparingly, it can highlight important sections or call-to-action buttons, guiding user attention effectively. To ensure accessibility, pair it with contrasting text colors like white or light yellow. The color can also be used for navigation bars, headers, and footers, providing a cohesive visual structure. The usage evokes trust and professionalism.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can create a calming and luxurious atmosphere when used as an accent wall color or for upholstery. The color pairs well with natural wood tones and metallic accents like gold or silver, adding warmth and sophistication. It's also suitable for creating a nautical theme or adding a touch of elegance to bedrooms, living rooms, or studies. The rich hue provides a contrasting backdrop for lighter furniture and decor.
Beauty & Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, this color can be incorporated into makeup palettes, particularly for creating dramatic eye looks. As a deep, rich shade, it works well as an eyeliner, eyeshadow, or mascara. The color is known to enhance and accentuate the eyes. It can also be used for nail polish, offering a bold and sophisticated option. It complements various skin tones and can be combined with other shades for unique and eye-catching designs.