Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#054EAF)
The hex color #054EAF, commonly referred to as Cobalt, is a deep and saturated shade of blue. It is composed of 2% red, 31% green, and 69% blue in the RGB color model. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 97% cyan, 55% magenta, 0% yellow, and 31% black. Cobalt blue is often associated with qualities such as stability, trust, intelligence, and confidence. Historically, cobalt pigments have been used in art and ceramics for centuries, lending their rich blue hue to various creations. Its prominent usage and strong association with these positive attributes make it a versatile choice for design applications, lending both credibility and visual impact.
The hex color #054EAF, also known as Cobalt, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its dark hue implies a need for light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between the text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color might fail accessibility checks if paired with darker shades of grey or other dark colors. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Additionally, consider users with visual impairments, such as color blindness, who may perceive colors differently. Providing alternative visual cues or text descriptions can further enhance accessibility. Using this color for interactive elements requires careful attention to focus indicators, ensuring they are clearly visible and distinguishable against the background.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast with dark text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #003399
A darker shade of blue for situations where even higher contrast is needed, such as for small text or critical UI elements.
- #0077cc
A brighter blue alternative which is also useful as an accent color, provides a vivid alternative while remaining in the blue color family.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt (#054EAF) is excellent for creating a sense of trust and stability. It can be used for primary buttons, navigation bars, and headers. The color’s depth makes it suitable for backgrounds or accents, particularly in corporate or educational websites, conveying professionalism and reliability. It pairs well with white, light grays, and complementary colors like yellows and oranges to create visually appealing and balanced designs.
Fashion
In fashion, Cobalt (#054EAF) can be used to create eye-catching statement pieces. The bold hue works well for dresses, jackets, and accessories, offering a vibrant pop of color. It can be combined with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a sophisticated look, or paired with complementary colors for a bolder, more playful style. This color is often associated with confidence and creativity, making it a popular choice for those who want to express themselves through their clothing.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt (#054EAF) brings a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. It can be used for accent walls, furniture, or decorative items like cushions and vases. The deep blue color creates a calming and inviting atmosphere, making it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices. Pairing it with lighter shades of blue, white, or beige can create a serene and balanced environment.