Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#0A44AA)
The color #0A44AA, also known as Cobalt, is a dark and saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. In the RGB color model, it consists of 3.92% red, 26.67% green, and 66.67% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.94, 0.60, 0.00, 0.33. Cobalt is a versatile color that can be used in various applications, ranging from web design and branding to fashion and interior design. It is often associated with professionalism, intelligence, and sophistication. Historically, cobalt blue pigment has been used in art and ceramics for centuries. Its rich and vibrant hue makes it a popular choice for creating visually appealing designs and artwork. Cobalt is a color that can evoke both calmness and confidence, making it a valuable asset in visual communication.
The hex color #0A44AA, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires careful consideration of the background color to ensure readability. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. A light background color, such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very light gray, is necessary to meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using darker background colors will result in text that is difficult or impossible to read for many users. In terms of user interface elements, avoid using #0A44AA for small icons or thin lines against a dark background. Consider using a thicker stroke or a lighter shade of blue to enhance visibility. Moreover, it is important to provide alternative visual cues, such as labels or tooltips, to ensure that users understand the purpose of interactive elements. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools is essential to validate its compliance with accessibility standards and to ensure that content is accessible to all users, including those with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast on white backgrounds, making it more accessible for text and UI elements.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a page, while still maintaining a degree of sophistication.
- #062e77
This darker hue maintains a similar cobalt feel while offering increased contrast against light backgrounds, enhancing readability and visibility in various applications.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt (#0A44AA) can be used to create a professional and trustworthy aesthetic. It's particularly effective for websites in the finance, technology, or education sectors where conveying stability and reliability is crucial. This color can be used for primary buttons, navigation menus, and heading backgrounds to create a cohesive and visually appealing design. However, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user, and always paired with appropriate text colors to maintain readability and accessibility. Cobalt evokes a sense of authority and sophistication, making it a great choice for brands looking to project a strong and confident image.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt (#0A44AA) can be utilized as an accent color to add a pop of color and depth to a room. It works particularly well in spaces with neutral color schemes, such as living rooms or bedrooms, where it can be incorporated through throw pillows, artwork, or statement furniture pieces. The color's calming and sophisticated nature can create a sense of serenity and luxury. When using Cobalt in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Consider pairing it with shades of white, gray, or beige to achieve a harmonious and balanced aesthetic.
Fashion
In fashion, Cobalt (#0A44AA) can be a bold and eye-catching color choice, often used in statement pieces like dresses, jackets, or accessories. It's a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Cobalt blue can be paired with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a sophisticated look, or with brighter colors like yellow or pink for a more playful and vibrant ensemble. Due to its rich and saturated nature, cobalt is particularly effective in formal wear, creating a sense of elegance and confidence in the wearer. Consider using cobalt for evening gowns, suits, or cocktail dresses to make a memorable statement.