Cobalt
General Information
The hex color #053EAF, also known as Cobalt, is a dark shade of blue with a strong presence. It is composed of 2% red, 24.3% green, and 68.6% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of 5 red, 62 green, and 175 blue. Cobalt is often associated with stability, depth, and expertise, making it a popular choice for branding and design projects aiming to convey trust and authority. Its dark nature can also evoke a sense of sophistication and elegance. This color is frequently used in corporate settings, technology interfaces, and educational materials to represent reliability and knowledge. When used appropriately, Cobalt can enhance the visual appeal of a design while communicating a message of confidence and professionalism. Its versatility allows it to be paired with various other colors to achieve different aesthetic effects, from modern and minimalist to classic and refined.
The hex color #053EAF, also known as Cobalt, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Given its relatively dark hue, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used as text or as a background color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text and user interface components. When using #053EAF for text, consider pairing it with lighter colors such as whites, yellows, or light shades of gray to meet these contrast requirements. Avoid using it with other dark colors, as this can make the text unreadable for users with visual impairments. Additionally, provide alternative visual cues for interactive elements like buttons or links, such as underlines or icons, as color alone should not be the sole indicator of functionality. For background applications, ensure foreground elements have adequate contrast and maintain a clear visual hierarchy to improve usability for all users, including those with color blindness or low vision. Testing your color combinations with accessibility tools can help identify and address any potential issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while providing better contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #007fff
A more vibrant blue, useful when a brighter, more energetic feel is desired while still staying in the blue color family.
- #4682b4
A desaturated blue for a more muted and calming effect.
Applications
User Interface Design
In user interface design, Cobalt (#053EAF) can be used to create a sense of sophistication and trust. It's suitable for primary action buttons, headings, and navigation elements, especially in finance or technology-related websites. Ensure adequate contrast with text and surrounding elements to maintain usability. For example, using #053EAF as a background color for call-to-action buttons with white text can draw the user's attention effectively. Additionally, consider its use in data visualization to represent important information clearly.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Cobalt can be utilized for creating bold and eye-catching apparel or accessories. A cobalt blue dress can make a strong statement, and smaller accents like a cobalt scarf or handbag can add a pop of color to an outfit. When combined with neutral tones like gray, black, or white, it creates a balanced and modern look. It's important to consider the fabric and texture when using Cobalt in fashion, as the color's vibrancy can be affected by different materials.
Interior Design
Cobalt (#053EAF) is a valuable hue in interior design for creating focal points and adding depth to a space. It works well as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items. It pairs nicely with cool grays, whites, and even natural wood tones, offering a sense of tranquility and sophistication. It is important to balance the intensity of Cobalt with lighter shades to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming. In larger rooms, consider using Cobalt on a feature wall or a statement piece of furniture to draw attention and add visual interest. In smaller spaces, use it sparingly to accent details such as cushions, vases or artwork to avoid making the room feel smaller.