Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #0E0C52, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that conveys a sense of sophistication and stability. It is composed of 5.5% red, 4.7% green, and 32.2% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:14, G:12, B:82. In the CMYK color space, its values are C:83, M:85, Y:0, K:68. This color is frequently associated with trust, authority, and intellect, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional websites. Its relatively low saturation and luminance mean that it pairs well with lighter, brighter colors to create contrast and visual interest. Gulf Blue evokes feelings of calmness and reliability, making it an excellent selection for industries seeking to project a sense of security and trustworthiness.
The hex color #0E0C52, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. When used as text against a white background, it fails WCAG AA and AAA contrast ratio requirements. Therefore, it is not suitable for body text or other essential information. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of blue or pairing it with lighter colors such as white, light gray, or light yellow for text or interactive elements. If Gulf Blue is essential to your design, ensure that interactive elements such as buttons have clear visual cues beyond color alone (e.g., underlines, icons, or borders). Additionally, provide sufficient spacing between interactive elements to aid users with motor impairments. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to confirm they meet the contrast requirements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
- #808080
A neutral gray that pairs well with Gulf Blue and can be used for text or background elements to create a balanced design.
- #778899
A lighter, desaturated blue that offers a softer aesthetic while improving readability.
Applications
Web Design and Branding
Gulf Blue, with its depth and sophistication, can be incorporated into website designs to create a sense of trust and reliability. It's particularly effective in header sections, accent elements, or as a background for short call-to-action sections. In branding, Gulf Blue communicates professionalism and can be leveraged in logos, stationery, and marketing materials. It works especially well for tech companies, financial institutions, or businesses looking to project an image of stability and competence. When used sparingly and paired with complementary or contrasting colors, Gulf Blue can enhance the visual appeal and user experience of digital interfaces.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies to add depth and sophistication. It works well when paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige. The color can be introduced through accent walls, furniture pieces, or decorative items like cushions, curtains, and artwork. This color is often chosen to create a calming and serene atmosphere in the home. It is particularly effective in coastal-themed decors where it is paired with light woods and natural textures.
Beauty and Fashion
Gulf Blue is often utilized in the beauty and fashion industry to create elegant and timeless looks. In cosmetics, it can be used for eyeshadows, eyeliners, or nail polishes. In fashion, Gulf Blue can be incorporated into evening gowns, suits, or accessories like scarves and handbags. The color works well with both warm and cool skin tones, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of consumers. To achieve the best visual appearance, it's recommended to pair the color with light colors.