Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The hex color #121155, often referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue with a slight inclination towards violet. It is composed of 7.1% red, 6.7% green, and 33.3% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as (18, 17, 85). This color is generally perceived as calming and sophisticated, reminiscent of deep ocean waters or the night sky. Due to its high blue component and low red and green components, it falls into the category of cold colors. Gulf Blue is frequently associated with trust, stability, and intelligence, which is why it's often used in corporate branding and websites.
The hex color #121155, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for text-based content. Its low luminance value of approximately 2% means it offers very little contrast against black backgrounds and similarly dark colors. Consequently, using #121155 as text on a white background or vice versa would fail WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA and AAA standards for color contrast. To ensure accessibility, designers should avoid using #121155 for text or interactive elements without employing a significantly lighter background color. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Utilizing color contrast checkers can assist in determining if a chosen color combination meets accessibility standards. Darker shades can be used as background.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Gulf Blue (#121155) can serve as a background color for website sections, particularly when aiming for a nautical or sophisticated theme. Its deep, calming hue lends itself well to creating a sense of depth and professionalism. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter, contrasting text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It's especially suitable for headers or footers, where contrast is carefully managed.
Fashion Apparel
Within the fashion industry, Gulf Blue can be incorporated into evening wear or formal attire, exuding an air of understated elegance. It is frequently used in the design of silk scarves or velvet jackets. When combined with silver or gold accessories, this color enhances a look of refined sophistication and has often been a frequent and popular choice for the runways of Milan and Paris.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gulf Blue creates a serene and sophisticated ambiance. It is well-suited for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, providing a calming backdrop for furniture and decor. Gulf Blue is often paired with neutral tones like white or beige to achieve a balanced aesthetic. The color is further enhanced by the addition of metallic or light-colored features that serve to brighten the space.