Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #120A54, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue with a hint of purple. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 7.1% red, 3.9% green, and 32.9% blue. The color is often associated with feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. Gulf Blue is not a commonly used color in mainstream design due to its low contrast and potential accessibility issues, but it can be effective when used strategically in combination with lighter, contrasting colors. Its CMYK values are C:78%, M:88%, Y:0%, K:67%.
The hex color #120a54, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast against both white and light-colored backgrounds. 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 fails to meet these requirements, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read content displayed in this color. To improve accessibility, it is advisable to pair Gulf Blue with very light colors such as white or light yellow, or to use it sparingly for decorative elements rather than essential information. A thorough contrast check using online tools is highly recommended before deploying this color in a user interface. Considering alternative, more accessible colors might be necessary for wider usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3428ac
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while retaining a similar aesthetic.
- #080424
A darker shade of blue that can be used as a complementary color or for elements requiring higher visibility.
- #7777ff
A lighter shade of blue that can be used on large backgrounds
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used sparingly for decorative elements like icons or subtle background accents. Due to its low contrast, it's not suitable for body text or crucial UI elements. It could be incorporated into a website's color scheme to evoke feelings of depth and sophistication, particularly for sites related to technology, finance, or luxury goods. When using Gulf Blue, it's imperative to pair it with high-contrast complementary colors for readability. For example, pairing it with shades of white or bright yellow could make it work for very large headlines
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue can add a touch of elegance to a room. It works well as an accent wall color in a study or bedroom, creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. When using Gulf Blue, balance it with lighter and warmer neutral tones to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Consider using it in combination with natural materials like wood or stone to enhance the room's overall aesthetic and create a balanced and inviting environment.
Fashion
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used for garments like evening wear or formal attire, where its deep and mysterious tone can create a sophisticated and elegant look. As an example, it can be used in a cocktail dress. It is best used when contrasted with light colors. It can also be used for accessories like scarves or handbags to add a subtle pop of color to an outfit.