Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The color #0A1860, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Its hexadecimal representation indicates a low presence of red and green, with blue being the dominant component. In the RGB color model, #0A1860 translates to approximately R:10, G:24, B:96. This color belongs to the broader blue color family, which is frequently associated with trustworthiness, intelligence, and tranquility. Gulf Blue's depth makes it suitable for applications where a sense of importance or reliability is desired. The color is less frequently found in natural settings compared to lighter blues, thus lending it a more formal or stylized aesthetic.
The hex color #0A1860, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. When used as a foreground color for text, it necessitates a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using #0A1860 on a dark background would make the text nearly illegible for many users, especially those with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, designers should pair this color with much lighter shades, such as whites, very light grays, or pastel colors. Additionally, providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, can enhance usability for users who may struggle to distinguish the color alone. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0A1860 can be used for website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter accent colors for buttons and calls to action. The color evokes trust and stability making it suitable for corporate websites and professional portfolios. Ensure sufficient contrast with text elements to maintain accessibility standards. This color is not ideally suited for backgrounds of large bodies of text.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, #0A1860 can be incorporated into packaging design for skincare or cosmetic products, especially those targeting a mature audience. The color conveys a sense of luxury and quality. It can also be used in eye shadow palettes or as an accent color in nail polish collections to provide a deep, alluring shade that complements various skin tones and eye colors, creating a sophisticated and elegant look.
Interior Design
The color is ideal for painting accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, especially when aiming for a contemporary or nautical theme. Paired with neutral-toned furniture and light-colored accessories, it can create a calming and sophisticated ambiance. In commercial spaces, this color can add a touch of class and professionalism to reception areas or executive offices. However, avoid using it in small, enclosed spaces as it can make the area feel even smaller.