Gulf Blue
General Information about #0A0B53
The hex color #0A0B53, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue with slight hints of violet. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.92% red, 4.31% green, and 32.55% blue. This composition gives it a unique place in the color spectrum, making it a cool and calming color. The color is often associated with depth, sophistication, and mystery. Due to its dark nature, it is typically used sparingly in design, often as an accent color rather than a primary background. When considering color palettes, #0A0B53 works well with lighter shades, such as whites, creams, or light grays, to create a balanced contrast. Its use requires careful consideration of visual accessibility to ensure readability, making it essential to pair it with sufficiently light foreground elements.
The hex color #0A0B53, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires a very light text color 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. Using a color like #0A0B53 with a dark text color would fail these guidelines, making content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Therefore, when incorporating #0A0B53 in web design, careful consideration must be given to the foreground text color. Light shades of yellow, white, or very light grays are recommended to achieve the necessary contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can be used to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Furthermore, providing alternative color schemes for users who may need them can further enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #292d8a
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast and visibility, suitable for backgrounds or elements requiring greater clarity.
- #333333
A neutral gray that can be used as a background or text color, providing a more subtle and accessible alternative.
- #1e217d
A dark shade of blue with better accessibility
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #0A0B53 can be used sparingly for headers or accents to create a sophisticated and deep aesthetic. However, it should not be the primary background color due to accessibility concerns. For example, a website for a luxury brand could use this color for its logo and navigation bar, paired with a very light gray or white for the main text and background to ensure readability. The key is to balance the visual appeal with the practical need for clear and accessible content.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, #0A0B53 can be used as an accent wall color in a room with plenty of natural light to add depth and richness. It pairs well with lighter furniture and decor elements in shades of white, gray, or beige. Alternatively, it can be used in smaller doses, such as in decorative pillows, rugs, or artwork, to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. The color's depth makes it a great choice for creating a focal point in a room.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, #0A0B53 can be used for evening wear or formal attire to create a sense of elegance and mystery. A dress or suit in this color can be paired with silver or gold accessories for a luxurious look. It can also be used in casual wear as a subtle accent color in patterns or as a solid color for accessories like scarves or hats. Its deep hue makes it versatile for various fashion applications.