Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#0D40A7)
The hexadecimal color #0D40A7, also known as Cobalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue with a hint of violet. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its strong presence and calming undertones. In the RGB color model, it consists of 5.1% red, 25.1% green, and 65.5% blue. This color is often associated with stability, trust, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and design. Cobalt blue has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was derived from cobalt salts. In modern usage, it offers a versatile option for creating visually appealing and impactful designs across various mediums.
The color #0D40A7, a deep shade of cobalt, presents some accessibility considerations. Its low lightness value means that sufficient contrast is crucial when pairing it with text or other interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) against its background. Lighter shades of yellow, white, or very light gray would be appropriate choices to ensure readability and usability. Using contrast checking tools during the design process is highly recommended to confirm that the chosen color combinations meet accessibility standards, thereby catering to users with visual impairments and ensuring a more inclusive user experience. Providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color is also good practice.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0D40A7 can serve as a primary color for buttons and navigation bars, conveying a sense of professionalism and trust. It's also suitable for highlighting key interactive elements or important pieces of information within a webpage. To ensure usability, it should be paired with contrasting text colors and used thoughtfully to guide the user's eye. Furthermore, it is well suited as the main corporate identity color for financial institutions, law firms and insurance businesses.
Fashion
In fashion, this color can be used for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, due to its sophisticated and elegant appearance. It can also be incorporated into accessories like scarves or handbags to add a pop of color to a more neutral outfit. It is also well suited for sportswear, to create a dynamic and energetic look. Depending on the material, it can also be used to make workwear more elegant and modern.
Interior Design
In interior design, #0D40A7 can be used as an accent color in a room, for example, on throw pillows, artwork, or a statement wall. It can create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere, especially when combined with neutral colors like gray or beige. It also works well with wooden furniture and metallic accents. Due to it's high saturation and low lightness it is mostly used for modern and high-end designs.