Congress Blue
General Information
The hex color code #003F87, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 24.7% green, and 52.9% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 100% cyan, 53% magenta, 0% yellow, and 47% black. This particular shade of blue conveys a sense of authority, stability, and professionalism. It's often associated with governmental institutions, financial organizations, and established brands seeking to project trustworthiness and reliability. Congress Blue can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication in design, making it a versatile choice for various applications, from web design to branding and interior design. Its rich hue lends itself well to both modern and classic aesthetics, providing a touch of elegance and composure.
The hex color #003F87, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, sufficient contrast with text and other foreground elements is crucial to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1, and for large text, it's 3:1. Therefore, pairing #003F87 with lighter hues like white (#FFFFFF) or light yellows can help meet these standards. It's also important to avoid using it with very dark colors, as the contrast would be insufficient. When using this color in interactive elements like buttons and links, it's essential to test the contrast of the different states (hover, focus, active) to guarantee that these states are also clearly distinguishable for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #003F87 can be used for website headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its depth makes it suitable for financial institutions or governmental websites. It can also be paired with lighter accent colors to highlight important information and improve user experience, while ensuring a balanced and visually appealing interface. The color evokes trust and stability, which is crucial for building confidence with website visitors and users. Moreover, using this color judiciously can establish a strong brand identity.
Interior Design
In interior design, #003F87 can be utilized to paint accent walls in offices or living rooms, creating a sense of calmness and sophistication. It pairs well with neutral colors such as gray, white, and beige, as well as with natural wood tones. This color is perfect for creating a serene atmosphere in bedrooms. Combining this hue with metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance its elegance, making it suitable for formal spaces such as dining rooms or studies, as well as for adding a touch of regal charm to the design.
Fashion
Congress Blue is a sophisticated and powerful color choice for fashion. It can be used in formal wear such as suits and dresses to create a professional and elegant look. It also works well in accessories like ties, scarves, and handbags to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. The color is versatile and can be paired with neutral tones such as gray and black, as well as brighter colors like yellow and red to create a statement. In casual wear, #003F87 can be used for sweaters, jackets, and jeans to create a stylish and modern look. It's a perfect color for creating a timeless and refined wardrobe.