Gulf Blue
General Information about Gulf Blue
The color #121454, also known as Gulf Blue, is a deep, muted blue with a significant presence of blue pigment and slight undertones of green and purple. It belongs to the dark blue color family and is often associated with sophistication, trustworthiness, and stability. Gulf Blue is not a naturally occurring color, and is commonly produced through mixtures of blue, black, and sometimes small amounts of red or green pigments. In color theory, it evokes feelings of calmness and authority, making it a popular choice for branding and design applications that aim to convey reliability. The hex code #121454 breaks down into its RGB components as follows: Red: 18 (12 in hex), Green: 20 (14 in hex), and Blue: 84 (54 in hex). It has a hue angle of 238.6 degrees, a saturation of 0.65, and a lightness of 0.2. This color leans towards a more formal and reserved aesthetic due to its lower lightness value.
The hex color #121454, also known as Gulf Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its low lightness value of 0.08 means that it provides insufficient contrast against standard white backgrounds, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair #121454 with much lighter colors for text or interactive elements. For backgrounds, lighter shades of yellows, greens, or even light grays would offer better contrast. When using this color, always test its contrast ratio with foreground elements using online contrast checkers to comply with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive user experience. For decorative purposes this color is less critical regarding accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Gulf Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel for financial or corporate websites. Its depth can evoke a sense of stability and reliability, making it suitable for header backgrounds, call-to-action buttons (when paired with a high-contrast text color like white or yellow), and subtle accents throughout the site. However, careful consideration must be given to contrast ratios to ensure readability, especially for smaller text elements. It can be incorporated in larger design elements for decorative purposes.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Gulf Blue translates into elegant evening wear or professional attire. Imagine a silk blouse or a tailored suit in this color, exuding a sense of quiet confidence and sophistication. It pairs well with silver or gold accessories for a touch of glamour or can be grounded with neutral tones like gray or beige for a more understated look. The color's richness makes it a standout choice for statement pieces, while its versatility allows it to be incorporated into various style aesthetics.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gulf Blue serves as an accent color to introduce depth and tranquility to a space. It can be used on accent walls in bedrooms or living rooms to create a calming atmosphere. The color pairs beautifully with cream or off-white shades and natural wood tones. Additionally, Gulf Blue can be used in upholstery, curtains, or decorative accessories such as vases or cushions. When using this color, consider the lighting in the room, as it can appear darker under dim lighting.