Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#0A124D)
The hexadecimal color code #0A124D, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue with slight hints of violet. It is composed of 3.92% red, 7.06% green, and 30.2% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as (10, 18, 77). This color possesses a low saturation and a relatively dark luminance, which contributes to its perceived depth and sophistication. Gulf Blue can evoke feelings of calmness, trust, and intellect, making it a popular choice for branding and design contexts aiming to project stability and professionalism. Its position on the color wheel classifies it as a cool color, making it versatile for pairing with both warm and cool tones, depending on the desired effect. In web design, careful consideration should be given to contrast ratios when using this color for text or interactive elements to ensure accessibility.
The color #0A124D, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify compliance. When #0A124D is used for interactive elements, focus states must be clearly defined using a contrasting color for outlines or other visual cues. Avoid using this color for small text or icons without careful consideration of contrast, as it can cause eye strain and make content inaccessible to users with low vision. Ensure that all information conveyed by color is also available through other means, such as text labels or symbols.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Header Background
In web design, Gulf Blue (#0A124D) can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or footers, providing a sense of depth and professionalism. It pairs well with lighter accent colors such as whites, creams, or even a contrasting vibrant yellow to draw attention to key elements. This color is particularly effective for websites targeting a mature audience or those aiming for a corporate or technological aesthetic. When utilizing this dark shade, careful attention must be paid to text contrast to ensure readability and accessibility, in accordance with WCAG guidelines. Overuse can lead to a somber feel, so balancing with ample white space and strategic highlights is crucial.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, #0A124D can be used for elegant evening wear or as a base color for patterned fabrics. As a solid color, it conveys a sense of sophistication and can be paired with metallic accessories like gold or silver for a luxurious touch. In interior design, it can create a moody and intimate atmosphere in bedrooms or studies when applied to walls or upholstery. It works particularly well with natural materials like wood and leather, and can be complemented with warm lighting to prevent the space from feeling too cold. Use as an accent will make furniture or other pieces stand out.
Branding and Logo Design
In branding, #0A124D can communicate stability and trustworthiness. For example, it can be used in logo design or marketing materials for financial institutions, law firms, or technology companies. A dark color that communicates stability.