Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
The color #0743ad, also known as Cobalt, is a deep shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and sophistication. It is composed of 2.75% red, 26.27% green, and 67.84% blue. In the RGB color space, it is relatively low in red and green, with a significantly higher blue component, resulting in its distinctive hue. Cobalt blue is often associated with corporate branding, technology, and academic institutions due to its connotations of reliability and intelligence. Its visual impact is strong, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to project a sense of authority and professionalism. Understanding its properties is crucial for effective use in various applications, from web design to interior decor.
The hex color #0743ad, also known as Cobalt, presents specific accessibility challenges primarily due to its low luminance. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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 to meet AA compliance. Using color contrast checkers is essential to verify compliance. Additionally, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of interactive elements; provide supplementary cues like underlines or icons. Consideration should be given to users with visual impairments, including those with low vision and color blindness. Ensure that interactive elements are clearly distinguishable and provide alternative visual cues to enhance accessibility and usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt (#0743ad) can be used to highlight primary navigation elements or as a background color for banners to draw attention. However, due to its darkness, it’s best paired with white or very light text to ensure readability and accessibility. It’s often used in themes related to technology, corporate branding, or academic institutions to convey a sense of trust and authority. Consider using it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user and always check color contrast ratios to meet accessibility standards. For instance, in a university website, this color might be used for the header and footer sections.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt can serve as an accent color to add a touch of sophistication and depth to a room. It can be used for statement walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories such as vases or cushions. When paired with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige, it creates a balanced and elegant atmosphere. Cobalt works well in studies, living rooms, or bedrooms, providing a calming yet stimulating environment. The intensity of the color should be balanced with ample lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed.
Fashion
In fashion, Cobalt makes a bold statement and can be used in clothing items such as dresses, blouses, or suits. It’s often paired with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a sophisticated look, or with complementary colors like yellow or orange for a more vibrant and playful style. Cobalt accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes can add a pop of color to an outfit. This color is suitable for both casual and formal wear, depending on the fabric and style of the garment. The key is to balance the intensity of the color with other elements of the outfit to create a harmonious and stylish ensemble.