Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue (#120B52)
The hexadecimal color #120B52, also known as Gulf Blue, is a dark and muted shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family but possesses a unique depth that sets it apart from brighter, more vibrant blues. In the RGB color model, it consists of 7.06% red, 4.31% green, and 32.16% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 78% cyan, 87% magenta, 0% yellow, and 68% black. This particular shade of blue evokes feelings of tranquility, sophistication, and mystery. Its historical use in heraldry and various art forms reflects its association with stability, wisdom, and trust. Gulf Blue is often used to convey a sense of professionalism and competence.
The hex color #120B52, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low luminance value results in a poor contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds. This can make text or interface elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. It is crucial to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) as per WCAG guidelines. Using lighter shades of text or employing background colors with sufficient luminance can mitigate these issues. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards, ensuring a more inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #342887
A lighter shade that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar cool tone.
- #281680
A more saturated version to increase vibrancy and visibility, especially on screens with lower color gamut.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray can be used for backgrounds or text to provide high contrast and readability.
Applications
Web Design for Corporate Identity
Gulf Blue's depth and sophistication make it well-suited for creating elegant and professional website designs. It can be used for headers, footers, or accent elements to add a touch of class without overwhelming the user. When paired with lighter, complementary colors, it can establish a sense of trustworthiness and stability, making it a good choice for corporate websites or financial institutions.
Interior Design for Calming Spaces
In interior design, Gulf Blue can create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It is well-suited for bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. When used as an accent wall or in furniture upholstery, it adds depth and character to the space. Pairing it with warm neutrals and natural materials like wood can balance the cool tones and create a harmonious environment.
Fashion for Evening Wear
In fashion, Gulf Blue can be used to create striking and sophisticated looks. It works well in evening wear or formal attire, adding a touch of elegance and mystery. It can be paired with metallics like silver or gold for a glamorous effect, or with brighter colors like yellow or orange for a more playful and dynamic look. Accessorizing with complementary colors can elevate the overall impact of the outfit.