Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #0A0B54, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark and muted shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family but exhibits a unique character due to its low saturation and luminance. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various design applications. In color theory, #0A0B54 can be considered a cool color, evoking a sense of tranquility and depth. Its muted nature makes it a versatile option for backgrounds and accent elements. The color is created by combining small amounts of red and green with a larger amount of blue in the RGB color model. This results in a color that is both rich and subdued, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The color name Gulf Blue suggests a connection to the sea or a deep ocean, reinforcing its calming and serene qualities.
The hex color #0A0B54, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of 2 means that text rendered in this color against a white background fails WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast requirements. Specifically, it doesn't meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text or 3:1 for large text. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors on #0A0B54 backgrounds or employing a much lighter shade of blue. Tools like contrast checkers can assist in evaluating and adjusting color combinations to ensure sufficient contrast, thereby providing a more inclusive experience for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Using this color as a background for important icons should also be avoided unless the icon itself has a very high contrast ratio. Remember to test the color with different types of visual impairments to get a good sense of how it could affect a broad range of users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Footer/Sidebar
Gulf Blue (#0A0B54) can be used in website footers or sidebars to create a sense of depth without being too distracting. The color provides a professional and calm feel, making it suitable for displaying secondary information, such as contact details, copyright notices, and navigation links. This color would work especially well for sites dealing with finance, technology, or consulting, where a sense of trust and authority is important. Further design considerations should focus on high contrast text to maximize readability.
Accent Wall Color
In interior design, Gulf Blue can serve as an accent wall color in a room with neutral tones. It introduces a calming yet sophisticated element, particularly effective in bedrooms or living rooms. When paired with lighter furniture and decor, it creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere. This color works well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing a space's overall aesthetic appeal and providing a comfortable environment. Additionally, consider using this color for textiles, such as curtains, rugs, or cushions, to add subtle color accents.
Fashion Apparel and Accessories
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used in clothing or accessories to provide a touch of elegance and sophistication. It is suitable for both casual and formal wear, working especially well for evening gowns or business suits. The color can also be used in accessories like scarves or handbags to complement neutral outfits. When used in footwear, Gulf Blue can add a unique twist to more traditional styles, creating visual interest without being overwhelming. Its depth and richness makes it a versatile option for creating stylish and refined looks.