Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The color #0D1050, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. It is composed of 5.1% red, 6.3% green, and 31.4% blue, making it a strongly blue-dominated color. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (13, 16, 80). This color is often associated with qualities such as intelligence, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aimed at conveying a sense of reliability. Its hexadecimal representation, #0D1050, is commonly used in web design and digital media for precise color specification. The name "Gulf Blue" suggests a connection to the sea, hinting at the color's association with water and vastness.
The hex color #0D1050, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark hue. Its low luminance creates insufficient contrast when paired with lighter text or interface elements, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Given the darkness of #0D1050, it is crucial to use it with very light colors such as white or very pale yellows to meet these contrast requirements. When used for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues beyond color alone are provided to assist users who may have color vision deficiencies. Thoroughly testing the color combination with accessibility tools is essential to guarantee usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a237e
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1565c0
A more vibrant blue that can provide better visibility and differentiation in user interfaces.
- #2b3856
A dark color that still meets contrast ratios with light text. It has a subtle hint of blue, maintaining the same visual appeal without accessibility issues.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0D1050 can be utilized as a background color for website headers or footers, creating a sophisticated and professional look. It can also be employed for call-to-action buttons, provided that the text color is sufficiently contrasting, such as white or a very light yellow. When used sparingly, it can add depth and visual interest to a website's color palette. Due to its darkness, avoid using it for large blocks of text, as it can strain the eyes and reduce readability. Incorporating it into graphical elements like icons or illustrations can also be effective in adding a touch of elegance and modernity to the overall design.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue (#0D1050) can serve as an accent color in spaces designed for relaxation or focus, such as bedrooms or studies. It could be incorporated through painted accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories like cushions and throws. Because of its depth, it pairs well with lighter, neutral colors like creams, grays, or whites to prevent the room from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can enhance its richness, while natural materials like wood and stone can add warmth and balance to the space. Properly lit spaces are key when using such dark color tones.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Gulf Blue can be used to create elegant and sophisticated looks. It's especially suitable for evening wear, such as gowns or cocktail dresses. It can also be used as a base color for more formal outfits to emphasize sophistication and authority. When paired with gold or silver accessories, it gives a royal look. Using it as a secondary color can add depth and create interesting visual effects in patterns and prints. For menswear, it can be used in suits or blazers to create a powerful and confident appearance. In more casual wear, it can be a stylish alternative to navy or black.