Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
The hex color #0B48A8, also known as Cobalt, is a deep shade of blue, exuding a sense of stability, trust, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 4.31% red, 28.24% green, and 65.88% blue. This particular combination gives it a rich, almost regal appearance. Cobalt derives its name from the German word 'kobold,' referring to underground spirits, which is fitting given its deep and mysterious quality. In color psychology, blue is often associated with calmness, intelligence, and dependability, making Cobalt a popular choice for brands and designs aiming to convey these attributes. It is frequently used in corporate branding, web design, and interior decorating to create a sense of professionalism and reliability. Its boldness also works very well with other colors.
The hex color #0B48A8, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Its relatively low lightness value can result in insufficient contrast against lighter text or interface elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #0B48A8, it's essential to pair it with a very light color like white or a pale yellow to ensure readability. Tools are available to check contrast ratios and verify compliance with accessibility standards, helping designers and developers make informed decisions to create inclusive and user-friendly experiences.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Cobalt, with its depth and richness, lends itself beautifully to website designs aiming for a sophisticated and trustworthy feel. Imagine a financial institution or a tech company employing it as a primary brand color. It can be used sparingly as an accent color to draw attention to calls to action, navigation elements, or key information. In user interfaces, Cobalt can create a sense of professionalism and stability, making it suitable for dashboards, data visualizations, and control panels where clarity and a sense of authority are paramount. The color should be implemented thoughtfully, always ensuring sufficient contrast with text and other interface elements to maintain readability and usability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt can add a touch of drama and elegance to a space. It works well as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point that is both calming and visually striking. Alternatively, it can be incorporated through furniture pieces like sofas, chairs, or rugs. Because of its intensity, it's often best used in moderation, balanced with lighter, neutral colors to prevent the space from feeling too overwhelming. Cobalt pairs well with materials like wood, metal, and glass, allowing for a variety of textures and finishes to be incorporated into the design. In this way it can be incorporated subtly, so it's impact is not overwhelming.
Fashion
In fashion, Cobalt offers a vibrant alternative to traditional navy or black. It can be used for statement pieces like dresses, jackets, or accessories, adding a pop of color to an outfit. Cobalt works well with a variety of skin tones and can be paired with other bold colors like red, yellow, or green for a playful look. It can also be paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige for a more sophisticated and understated look. Cobalt accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes can add a touch of elegance to any outfit.