Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #004080, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trust, and authority. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 25.1% green, and 50.2% blue. Its hexadecimal representation, #004080, is widely used in web design and digital media. Congress Blue is often associated with professionalism and reliability, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and government websites. The name 'Congress Blue' suggests a connection to governmental or official contexts, further reinforcing its association with authority and trustworthiness. Its cool undertones contribute to a sense of calmness and serenity, making it suitable for applications where a sense of security is desired. When used effectively, Congress Blue can create a sophisticated and dependable image.
The hex color #004080, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively low lightness value means that it requires careful attention to contrast ratios, especially when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. To ensure accessibility, aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Using tools to measure contrast ratios is highly recommended during the design process. Consider pairing Congress Blue with lighter shades of gray, yellow, or white to meet these contrast requirements. Avoid using it with darker colors, as this can make content difficult to read. When used for links or buttons, provide additional visual cues like underlines or icons to enhance discoverability for all users. Remember to test your color choices with assistive technologies to ensure compatibility and usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, making it easier to read text.
A more vibrant blue that stands out and attracts attention, suitable for highlighting important elements.
A neutral grey tone that can be used for backgrounds or text to provide a more subtle contrast.
Applications
Website Navigation Bar
Congress Blue can be used as a primary color for a website's navigation bar, creating a professional and trustworthy feel. The deep blue hue evokes a sense of stability and authority, making it ideal for businesses in the finance or legal sectors. To enhance user experience, consider using a lighter shade of blue or white for the text and icons in the navigation bar, ensuring optimal contrast and readability. Additionally, subtle hover effects can be added to the navigation links to provide visual feedback and improve interactivity. The overall design should be clean and modern, with a focus on usability and accessibility. The color should be tested on different devices.
Accent Wall Color
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. The deep blue hue provides a sense of depth and tranquility, making it ideal for spaces where relaxation is desired. To complement the blue wall, consider using neutral colors such as beige, gray, or white for the furniture and other decorative elements. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can also be added to enhance the luxurious feel of the space. Natural light is important to consider.
Fashion Outfit Base Color
Congress Blue can be used as a base color for a stylish outfit. The dark blue can be a classic tone that makes a great basic. Other colors like white, grey or even lighter tones of blue can be paired with it. It can be used in shirts, pants, dresses and jackets. For a more casual style it can be paired with sneakers, but can also be used with more formal shoes like heels or leather shoes.