Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#0B0D53)
The hex color #0B0D53, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue with a hexadecimal value of 0B0D53. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its low saturation and brightness. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4.31% red, 5.1% green, and 32.55% blue. The color is often associated with feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. It's important to be mindful of contrast ratios, which affect readability for people with visual impairments. Gulf Blue, due to its darkness, requires careful consideration to ensure that foreground elements, particularly text, are easily legible against it. Its CMYK values are C:92, M:88, Y:0, K:67.
The hex color #0B0D53, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value necessitates careful consideration of color contrast. When using this color for text, a very light color such as #FFFFFF (white) should be used to provide sufficient contrast as specified by WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Failure to meet these contrast requirements can render content unreadable for many users. When using #0B0D53 for backgrounds, ensure that all foreground elements, including text and interactive components, meet the specified contrast ratios. Avoid pairing it with other dark colors. Also consider providing alternative styling options that offer higher contrast for users who need them.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e2173
A slightly lighter blue that offers improved contrast and visibility.
- #293399
A more vibrant blue that is easier to see and provides better color differentiation.
- #36454F
A dark grayish-blue offering a neutral alternative while maintaining a sense of depth and sophistication, also ensuring better readability.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0B0D53 can be used for creating a sophisticated and professional look, particularly in industries such as finance, technology, or education. It's suitable for header backgrounds, navigation bars, or as an accent color to highlight important elements. Due to its darkness, it should be used sparingly and paired with lighter colors to ensure readability and visual balance. Consider using it for interactive elements like buttons, where a lighter hover state can provide clear feedback to the user, improving the overall user experience and interface.
Fashion and Interior Design
In fashion, #0B0D53 (Gulf Blue) can be used to evoke a sense of elegance and mystery. It can be incorporated into evening wear, formal attire, or as an accent color in accessories. Consider using it for scarves, ties, or handbags. In interior design, Gulf Blue could be used in accent walls in bedrooms or living rooms or home offices, especially when combined with lighter, neutral colors like gray or beige to create a balanced and calming atmosphere. Smaller elements like cushions, vases, and throws in this hue can add a touch of depth without overwhelming the space.
Branding
In the realm of branding, #0B0D53 can be used to convey qualities such as trustworthiness, stability, and sophistication. It is particularly well-suited for businesses in sectors like finance, technology, and consulting, where establishing credibility and confidence is paramount. It can be incorporated into logos, websites, marketing materials, and office spaces to reinforce the brand's values and create a cohesive visual identity. A lighter shade of the same hue can be used as a secondary color to ensure readability in web design and documents.