Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#0B3DA8)
The color #0B3DA8, also known as Cobalt, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue belonging to the blue color family. It is a saturated color, evoking feelings of trustworthiness, intelligence, and stability. Cobalt is often associated with professionalism and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and web design. Its hexadecimal code #0B3DA8 indicates that it is composed of 4.39% red, 23.92% green, and 65.88% blue. In the RGB color model, it translates to 11 red, 61 green, and 168 blue. Cobalt's CMYK values are 93.45% cyan, 63.69% magenta, 0% yellow, and 34.12% black. This color is widely used in digital art, graphic design, and interior decoration, where its depth and richness can add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
The hex color #0B3DA8, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its relatively low luminance of 0.041 means that text needs to be very light to provide sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using white text (#FFFFFF) on a Cobalt background yields a contrast ratio of approximately 4.7:1, which barely meets the minimum requirement for normal text. Therefore, it's crucial to use larger font sizes or bolder font weights to improve readability. When using Cobalt for interactive elements like buttons, ensure sufficient visual cues beyond color alone are present, such as borders or icons, to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies. Consider using a lighter shade of Cobalt or a different background color altogether to increase contrast and improve accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast with white text, enhancing readability.
- #457b9d
A muted blue that provides a softer, more subtle background option while maintaining a professional appearance.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant blue alternative that can draw attention and create a sense of energy, suitable for highlighting key elements.
Applications
Web Design: Headers and Navigation
Cobalt, with its deep and sophisticated hue, finds excellent application in website headers and navigation bars. Its richness provides a professional and trustworthy feel, making it ideal for establishing a strong brand identity. By pairing it with lighter text, the header becomes easily readable while maintaining a visually appealing design. This color can also be utilized for interactive elements such as buttons, where its contrast can draw the user's attention effectively. Moreover, Cobalt can serve as a background color for sections emphasizing important information, ensuring the content stands out and enhances the user's overall experience.
Interior Design: Accent Color
In the realm of interior design, Cobalt can serve as a striking accent color in various spaces. Consider using it for statement walls in living rooms or bedrooms to create a bold and luxurious atmosphere. When paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige, Cobalt adds a touch of sophistication and depth to the room. It is also suitable for upholstery on furniture, such as sofas or armchairs, creating a focal point that exudes elegance. Additionally, Cobalt can be incorporated into decorative elements like throw pillows, curtains, or artwork to inject a pop of color and visual interest into any interior space.
Fashion: Apparel and Accessories
Cobalt is a popular choice in the fashion industry for creating bold and eye-catching pieces. It is often used in evening wear, such as dresses and gowns, to convey a sense of elegance and confidence. The rich hue of Cobalt also works well in accessories like handbags, scarves, and shoes, adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. In menswear, Cobalt can be found in blazers, dress shirts, and ties, offering a stylish alternative to traditional navy or black. Furthermore, Cobalt can be incorporated into sportswear, where its vibrancy can enhance visibility and create a sense of energy.