Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0543AE, is a deep shade of blue evoking feelings of stability, trust, and knowledge. It belongs to the blue color family and tends towards the cooler side of the color spectrum. Historically, cobalt blue pigment has been used in various forms of art and design, adding richness and depth to paintings and ceramics. In modern times, it is frequently used in digital interfaces, corporate branding, and graphic design to communicate reliability and professionalism. Its relatively low brightness and high saturation makes it ideal as an accent color.
The color #0543AE, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a foreground color against a white or light background. Its low luminance value means it provides insufficient contrast, potentially making text or interactive elements difficult to perceive for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use this color with a sufficiently light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Alternatively, consider using this color sparingly for purely decorative elements or pairing it with a much lighter foreground color to improve readability and usability for all users. Always test color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools to verify compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt (#0543AE) can be used to create a sense of trust and professionalism. It's suitable for header backgrounds, button accents, and navigational elements. However, ensure sufficient contrast with text to maintain readability. For example, use it as a background with white or light-colored text, or as an accent color sparingly to draw attention to important elements. Cobalt can also be effective in data visualizations to represent specific categories or ranges of data.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt (#0543AE) can be used as an accent color in a room to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be incorporated through furniture, artwork, or wall paint. When using it in a larger area, balance it with lighter neutral colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. It pairs well with warm grays, creams, and light woods. Consider using cobalt blue throw pillows or a statement piece of art against a neutral backdrop.
Fashion
In fashion, Cobalt (#0543AE) is a bold and eye-catching color that can add a pop of vibrancy to an outfit. It works well as a statement piece, such as a dress or a jacket, or as an accent color in accessories like scarves or shoes. Pair it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray to let the cobalt blue stand out. It can also be combined with complementary colors like yellow-orange for a bolder, more vibrant look.