Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#0A1A4E)
The hex color #0A1A4E, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue with a subtle hint of green. It belongs to the family of blue colors and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.92% red, 10.2% green, and 30.59% blue. This combination gives it a rich, complex tone that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. It's a color often associated with the ocean depths and the night sky, lending it a sense of mystery and intrigue. Because of it's high blue content, it is also a color that can sometimes represent sadness and can be associated with depression, but in web design it is mostly associated with sophistication.
The hex color #0A1A4E, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against lighter backgrounds like white or very light gray. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for readability and usability, particularly for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with significantly lighter text colors, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. When using #0A1A4E as a background, lighter shades of yellow, orange, or even pale blues could work well as foreground text. Avoid using it with darker shades or colors of similar luminance, as this can cause eye strain and make the content difficult to read. Careful consideration of color pairings is key to creating an inclusive and accessible design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #283593
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #000033
A darker, almost black, shade of blue suitable for backgrounds where high contrast with light text is required for optimal accessibility.
- #1e3a8a
This blue offers a balance between depth and readability, suitable for both text and background elements. It presents a brighter alternative, improving visibility.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0A1A4E can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look. It's well-suited for headers, navigation bars, and other prominent elements where a sense of authority and trustworthiness is desired. When used as a background color, ensure that the text is light enough to provide sufficient contrast for readability. Additionally, it can be incorporated into data visualizations to represent specific categories or data points, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation. Consider using it for interactive elements like buttons, providing a subtle visual cue to users.
Fashion and Beauty
#0A1A4E can serve as a base color for eyeshadow or eyeliner, lending a dramatic and mysterious touch to the eyes. It can also be used in nail polish to achieve a deep and elegant look. In fashion, this color can be incorporated into evening gowns, suits, or accessories to convey a sense of sophistication and refinement. This color is very well suited for garments designed for night time occasions.
Interior Design
This color brings a sense of calmness and sophistication to interior spaces. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Additionally, it can be incorporated into furniture pieces, such as sofas or chairs, to add a touch of elegance to the decor. When paired with lighter colors like white or beige, it creates a balanced and harmonious look, ideal for creating serene environments.