Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#0B48A6)
The color #0B48A6, commonly known as Cobalt, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue. It resides in the blue region of the color spectrum and is characterized by its high saturation and moderate brightness. This color is often associated with qualities such as trust, stability, intelligence, and confidence. In color psychology, blue is generally seen as calming and reliable, making Cobalt a popular choice for branding and design where these attributes are desired. Cobalt's hex code #0B48A6 translates to 11 red, 72 green, and 166 blue in the RGB color model. It is frequently used in various applications, ranging from web design and graphic arts to fashion and interior decoration, thanks to its ability to evoke a sense of professionalism and sophistication.
The hex color #0B48A6, also known as Cobalt, presents specific accessibility considerations for web developers. With its relatively low lightness value, using it as a background color requires careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. White or very light shades of yellow or green would be good choices for text over a Cobalt background. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure that hover, focus, and active states provide clear visual cues. Avoid using this color for small, detailed graphics or icons if the surrounding background is dark, as it may become difficult to discern. Thoroughly test the color combination with accessibility evaluation tools to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive user experience. Remember to consider users with different types of color blindness when designing with this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e56a9
A slightly lighter shade provides better contrast with darker text.
- #204080
A desaturated version can be easier on the eyes in large blocks of color.
- #003399
Another good alternative is #003399, a similar shade of blue with a slightly higher contrast ratio against white, making it more accessible for text and interactive elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt can be used for primary buttons to draw attention, navigation bars to establish a clear visual hierarchy, or as an accent color to highlight key elements. The deep, saturated hue conveys a sense of trust and stability, making it suitable for websites related to finance, technology, or education. Use it sparingly and strategically to maintain a balanced and professional aesthetic. For example, consider using it for headers and footers, while keeping the main content area clean and uncluttered.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt can be used as an accent wall color to create a focal point in a room, or as upholstery for furniture to add a pop of color. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, white, and beige, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. The rich, saturated hue adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space, making it suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, or even home offices. Consider using it in combination with textures like velvet or silk to enhance its luxurious feel.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Cobalt is a bold and versatile color that can be used for both casual and formal wear. A Cobalt dress or suit makes a strong statement, while Cobalt accessories like scarves or handbags can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. It complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with other colors like yellow, pink, or green for a vibrant and eye-catching look. Cobalt is often used in sportswear as well, conveying energy and dynamism.