Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0841A3, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trustworthiness, and intelligence. It's a color often associated with corporate identities, technology companies, and institutions seeking to project an image of reliability and expertise. In color psychology, blue is generally linked to calmness and serenity, but darker shades like Cobalt can also convey a sense of authority and seriousness. Its relatively low brightness and saturation mean that it needs careful consideration when used in design to ensure adequate contrast and readability. The color is created by the combination of 3.14% red, 25.49% green and 63.92% blue.
The color #0841A3, also known as Cobalt, presents significant 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. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Cobalt's low luminance means it will likely fail these contrast tests with most text colors other than very light ones. When using this color, careful consideration must be given to the foreground text color and font size to ensure that users with visual impairments can easily read the content. Using contrast checking tools is highly recommended to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Also, avoid using this color for critical interactive elements, such as links and buttons, without proper visual cues and sufficient contrast, as this can create usability issues for users with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt can be used as a primary color for headings or accents to create a sense of trust and authority. It's suitable for financial institutions, legal firms, or corporate websites aiming to project professionalism. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter backgrounds and text colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it sparingly for visual elements like icons or borders to avoid overwhelming the design. Cobalt can also be effectively combined with complementary colors like yellow or orange to create a visually appealing and balanced user interface.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or living rooms as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. Pair it with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overpowering. Cobalt can also be used in accessories like cushions, curtains, or rugs to add a pop of color and create visual interest. Consider using metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance the luxurious feel of the space.
Fashion
In fashion, Cobalt can be used to create a bold and stylish statement. It works well for evening wear, formal dresses, or tailored suits. It can also be used in accessories like handbags, shoes, or scarves to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. Cobalt complements various skin tones and can be paired with other colors like black, white, or silver to create a sophisticated look. It's also a popular color for athletic wear, as it conveys a sense of energy and confidence.