Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #083FAC, is a deep shade of blue. It evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. In color psychology, blue is often associated with stability and reliability, making cobalt a popular choice for branding and corporate identities. The color's depth can bring a sense of formality and seriousness. It's created by a combination of red, green and blue light, with very little red and significant amount of green and blue. In various cultures, blue can also represent peace, tranquility, and security, which can explain its frequent use in governmental and financial institutions. Cobalt gets its name from the German word 'kobold,' referring to underground gnomes.
The color #083FAC, a deep cobalt hue, presents several accessibility considerations for web design. Its low luminance necessitates careful selection of foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast, especially for text. Adhering to WCAG guidelines for contrast ratios (4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text) is crucial. White or very light shades of yellow or green are generally advisable as foreground colors. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of interactive elements; supplement it with text labels, icons, or other visual cues. When used in charts or graphs, ensure adequate color differentiation between adjacent elements to prevent confusion for users with color vision deficiencies. Testing with accessibility tools and gathering feedback from users with disabilities is highly recommended to validate the design's accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Cobalt (#083FAC) can be used for primary navigation menus, headers, and call-to-action buttons, especially for websites that aim to convey trust, stability, and authority. Its depth makes it suitable for backgrounds, providing a sophisticated and professional feel. When used for text, ensure high contrast with a light color to maintain readability and accessibility. Consider incorporating it as an accent color to highlight important information or guide the user's eye. This color works well with minimalist designs and can complement other shades of blue or neutral tones.
Interior Design
In interior design, cobalt blue can be used to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a space. It works well as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. Consider painting a feature wall in cobalt blue or using it for upholstery, cushions, or rugs. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to create a balanced and harmonious look. Accents of gold or silver can enhance its luxurious feel. It is essential to balance the depth of this color with ample light to avoid making the space feel too dark or closed-in.
Fashion
Cobalt is a classic and versatile color in fashion, often associated with sophistication and style. A cobalt dress can be a statement piece, while accessories like scarves or handbags in this hue can add a pop of color to an outfit. It pairs well with neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as other shades of blue. Consider using cobalt in corporate wear for a professional yet stylish look, or in casual wear for a touch of elegance. Its rich tone makes it suitable for various fabrics, from silk to denim.