Cobalt

General Information about Cobalt

Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #044B9F, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trust, and professionalism. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with corporate environments, technology, and institutions. The color is created by combining small amounts of red and green with a significant amount of blue. Cobalt blue is named after the chemical element cobalt, which is used to create the pigment. It is a popular choice for branding, web design, and interior design due to its calming and sophisticated appearance. In color psychology, blue is often linked to intelligence, efficiency, and loyalty. Cobalt blue's depth makes it ideal for creating a sense of authority and reliability.

The color #044B9F, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14 points bold or 18 points regular) to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards. Using a color contrast checker is essential to verify compliance. For users with low vision, ensuring adequate contrast is crucial. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey information; use text labels or icons to provide alternative cues. When using Cobalt for interactive elements, such as buttons or links, clearly indicate the interactive state (e.g., hover, focus) with a noticeable change in appearance, such as a lighter shade or an underline. Consider using a color palette that includes lighter shades of blue or complementary colors to enhance accessibility and visual appeal.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Headers and Footers

  Cobalt (#044B9F) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a professional and sophisticated look. Its deep blue hue evokes trust and stability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, technology, or education. When paired with a clean, minimalist design and lighter accent colors, Cobalt can establish a strong brand identity. Ensure that the text used on top of the Cobalt background has sufficient contrast for readability, adhering to accessibility guidelines. Furthermore, the color can be used for buttons and other interactive elements, but provide clear visual cues for hover and active states.

• Interior Design Accent Color

  In interior design, Cobalt (#044B9F) can be used as an accent color to add depth and richness to a room. It works well in combination with neutral colors like gray, white, or beige. Consider using it for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories such as cushions or vases. Cobalt can create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. To avoid overwhelming the space, use it sparingly and balance it with lighter colors and natural light. The color can also be incorporated in artwork or textiles to create a cohesive design scheme.

• Fashion Design

  Cobalt (#044B9F) can be used in fashion design as a bold and sophisticated color for clothing or accessories. A cobalt blue dress or blazer can make a statement, while cobalt accessories like scarves or handbags can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. The color pairs well with other cool tones like gray, black, or silver, as well as warm tones like gold or mustard yellow. Cobalt is suitable for both casual and formal wear, depending on the fabric and design. Consider using it for evening gowns, suits, or sportswear. When using cobalt in fashion, pay attention to the overall balance and harmony of the outfit.

Complementary color

Buttons