Gulf Blue
General Information About Gulf Blue
The color #10104E, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue with a hint of purple. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its low saturation and darkness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 6.27% red, 6.27% green, and 30.59% blue. The CMYK color model represents it as 79.57% cyan, 79.57% magenta, 0% yellow, and 69.41% black. This color is frequently used to evoke feelings of calmness, stability, and trust, making it popular in corporate branding and web design. Its hex code #10104E can be directly used in HTML and CSS to specify this exact color.
The hex color #10104E, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light text to ensure readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Due to its dark nature, #10104E will likely fail these contrast tests with most commonly used text colors like gray or even light yellows. Therefore, designers and developers must carefully select contrasting colors, ideally whites or very pale shades, and verify the contrast ratio using accessibility tools. Using this color for essential UI elements should be avoided unless paired with appropriate high contrast alternatives. For users with visual impairments, low contrast can render content unreadable, creating an exclusionary experience. Testing with various accessibility checkers is crucial to ensure compliance and inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #282870
A lighter blue that provides better contrast for text.
- #383890
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color.
- #A9A9A9
A lighter shade of gray can offer better readability, especially for large blocks of text, and it's generally more accessible for a wider audience, particularly those with visual impairments.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Gulf Blue (#10104E) can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers, especially for companies aiming for a professional and trustworthy image. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with very light text to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be utilized for subtle graphical elements or accents on a page, provided that these elements aren't critical for user interaction. Carefully consider its use in data visualizations as it may obscure details if not handled properly. Remember to prioritize user experience by adhering to WCAG guidelines for color contrast.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It's well-suited for accent walls in bedrooms or living rooms, where its dark hue can evoke a sense of tranquility. This color also works well in home offices, promoting focus and concentration. However, using it excessively can make a space feel smaller and darker, so it's best paired with lighter colors and ample natural light. Consider using it in combination with warm, natural materials like wood and woven textiles to balance its cool tone.
Packaging Design
Gulf Blue can be utilized for packaging design, especially for luxury goods or products associated with technology and innovation. Its deep hue can convey a sense of exclusivity and reliability. When used for cosmetic packaging, it can suggest sophistication and elegance. However, readability of product information is crucial, so any text printed on a Gulf Blue background must be in a high-contrast color, such as white or a very light shade of gray. Effective use of typography and layout will ensure that the packaging is both visually appealing and informative.