Gulf Blue
General Information
Gulf Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0F104E, is a dark shade of blue with a touch of purple undertone. It belongs to the family of blue colors, known for evoking feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 5.9% red, 6.3% green, and 30.6% blue. The CMYK color model translates to 97% cyan, 95% magenta, 0% yellow, and 69% black. Gulf Blue is often associated with sophistication, depth, and mystery, making it a popular choice for branding and design where a sense of elegance and professionalism is desired. Its deep hue provides a rich backdrop that can make lighter colors stand out, offering a balanced visual contrast when implemented correctly. It is a popular color in graphic design and web development.
The hex color #0f104e, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Gulf Blue often falls short of these recommendations when paired with mid-tone grays or darker colors. Web developers should use tools to verify contrast ratios and consider using lighter shades of text such as white or very pale yellow to meet accessibility standards. Additionally, providing alternative color schemes for users with visual impairments can greatly enhance the user experience. It's important to avoid relying solely on color to convey information; instead, use text labels or icons to provide redundancy and ensure inclusivity for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #293462
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast when used with darker text.
- #1e2772
A more vibrant blue that can be used to create visually appealing accents while maintaining accessibility with appropriate text colors.
- #191970
A dark midnight blue for backgrounds with high contrast accessibility.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or call-to-action buttons. Its depth evokes trust and professionalism, making it suitable for finance or corporate websites. However, care must be taken to pair it with high-contrast text to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it sparingly as an accent color to draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the user. Gulf Blue can be a good choice in combination with a bright accent color such as yellow or orange, to give the webpage a dynamic appearance.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue can be used to create a calming and elegant atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. Consider using it on accent walls or upholstery to add depth and sophistication to a space. This color can be complemented by warm lighting to create a cozy and inviting environment. It is not recommended for smaller rooms or spaces with low natural light, as it may make the space feel darker and more confined.
Fashion Design
Gulf Blue can be used in fashion design, especially in evening wear or formal attire. This color makes a powerful yet subtle statement. It complements materials like velvet, silk or satin. It pairs well with silver or gold accessories, or it can be a part of formal clothing, especially for women. It is a sophisticated and elegant choice for clothing.