Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #003BB0, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its strong saturation and depth. In the RGB color model, Cobalt consists of 0% red, 23.14% green, and 69.02% blue. The color's name is derived from the element cobalt, which is known for producing intense blue pigments. Cobalt blue has been used for centuries in various applications, including painting, ceramics, and glassmaking. It evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism, making it a popular choice in branding and design. The usage of the color is also common in science and technology.
The hex color #003BB0, also known as Cobalt, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a foreground color, it necessitates a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using color contrast analyzers helps ensure text remains legible for users with visual impairments. It's also crucial to avoid relying solely on color to convey information, implementing text labels or icons to ensure content is accessible to colorblind users. Furthermore, when using #003BB0 for interactive elements such as links or buttons, clear visual cues beyond color alone are necessary to indicate their interactive nature.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter blue, which can provide better contrast against dark backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #00297a
A darker shade of blue, suitable for backgrounds or accents where a deeper color is needed, offering visual distinction.
- #0052cc
A more saturated blue that can draw attention to the elements on the screen.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt (#003BB0) can be used to create a sense of trust and stability. It can be applied to headings, navigation menus, and button backgrounds, provided sufficient contrast is ensured. Consider using it for highlighting interactive elements or conveying key information, but always pair it with appropriate text and iconography to ensure accessibility. This color works well in professional or corporate websites aiming to project reliability and authority. Because of its association with security, #003BB0 can be a good choice for financial and governmental websites.
Interior Design
In interior design, #003BB0 can be incorporated as an accent color to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used for painting a feature wall, choosing furniture upholstery, or selecting decorative accessories like cushions and vases. When combined with neutral tones such as white, gray, or beige, Cobalt adds a pop of color without overwhelming the space. It's often used in bedrooms or home offices to promote relaxation and focus. The dark and saturated pigment can also be used in combination with golden or wooden elements to create a sophisticated and luxurious look.
Fashion
In fashion, the Cobalt color (#003BB0) can be used to create elegant and eye-catching outfits. Garments or accessories in this color can add a touch of sophistication and style to any wardrobe. Consider incorporating Cobalt into dresses, blouses, scarves, or handbags to make a fashion statement. This color works well for both casual and formal attire, depending on the fabric and design. Combining Cobalt with neutral colors like black, white, or gray creates a balanced and chic look, while pairing it with complementary colors like orange or yellow can add a pop of contrast and personality. In sportswear, cobalt can give a sense of energy and dynamism.