Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#0549AF)
The hex color #0549AF, commonly known as Cobalt, is a deep shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trust, and sophistication. It is a popular choice in various design applications, including web design, graphic arts, and interior decoration. In the RGB color model, Cobalt consists of 0.02 red, 0.29 green, and 0.69 blue. When represented in the CMYK color model, it comprises 99% cyan, 56% magenta, 0% yellow, and 31% black. This color has a relatively low lightness value, making it suitable for backgrounds or accents when paired with lighter colors to ensure sufficient contrast. Historically, Cobalt blue pigment has been valued for its intensity and permanence, making it a staple in artistic and industrial applications.
The color #0549AF, also known as Cobalt, presents specific accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Cobalt blue might fail to meet these standards with mid-tone or darker text colors. It is crucial to test color combinations using accessibility evaluation tools to verify compliance. Moreover, avoid using this color to convey important information without a secondary visual cue, as it might not be discernible by users with color blindness. Providing alternative text descriptions for graphical elements and ensuring that interactive elements have clearly defined focus states are essential for inclusive design when using Cobalt blue.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter, more accessible shade of blue. It offers better contrast with dark text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e90ff
A brighter blue alternative that provides better visibility and is more suitable for interactive elements.
- #778899
A desaturated shade of blue that can be used to create a calm and professional look, while still providing enough contrast with surrounding elements.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Cobalt (#0549AF) can be utilized to create a sophisticated and professional aesthetic for websites, particularly in sectors like finance, technology, or education. It can be used for headers, navigation bars, and key visual elements to convey trust and stability. Due to accessibility considerations, it's important to pair it with very light text colors for readability. The color also serves as a complementary accent when alongside brighter, warmer colors. Careful attention to contrast ratios is essential to ensure optimal user experience and meet accessibility standards, making it a suitable choice for visual designs that emphasize professionalism and clarity.
Beauty
Within the beauty industry, Cobalt (#0549AF) is frequently featured in eye makeup, nail polish, and hair dyes. It offers a bold and striking effect, lending itself well to both classic and avant-garde looks. Cobalt eyeshadow can create a dramatic smoky eye, while Cobalt nail polish provides a vibrant and eye-catching accent. In hair dye, Cobalt can add depth and intensity to darker hair shades, creating a unique and fashionable appearance. Its use allows consumers to express their individuality, by giving a modern artistic look. Its versatile nature makes it appealing for a wide range of beauty applications.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt (#0549AF) serves as an elegant accent color, primarily in spaces intended for relaxation or contemplation, such as bedrooms, studies, or libraries. It can be implemented through furniture upholstery, decorative pillows, or statement walls. The color pairs well with neutral tones like gray, white, or beige, creating a harmonious and balanced environment. When using Cobalt, designers often incorporate metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its richness and depth. The goal is to infuse rooms with a sense of serenity and sophistication, by creating visual interest without overwhelming the space.