Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue (#004488)
The hex color #004488, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 26.7% green, and 53.3% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is often used for printing, it consists of 100% cyan, 40% magenta, 0% yellow, and 66.7% black. This color is frequently used in corporate branding, government websites, and educational materials to convey authority and reliability. Its deep, rich hue makes it a versatile choice for both digital and print media. Understanding the color model breakdowns can assist designers in accurately reproducing the color across various platforms and mediums, ensuring consistency and brand recognition.
The hex color #004488, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web development. When used as a background color, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the foreground text color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using a light color like white or a very pale yellow for the text can help achieve this contrast. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be used to verify compliance. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, it's important to provide clear visual cues on hover or focus states to ensure usability for users with visual impairments or those who rely on keyboard navigation. Adding an underline or a change in background color on interaction can be helpful. Avoid using this color alone to convey important information, as color blindness affects a significant portion of the population. Always supplement color with text labels or icons to ensure information is accessible to everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still provides a professional look but with improved visibility in certain lighting conditions.
A darker shade of blue for situations where a stronger, more authoritative tone is desired.
A more vibrant blue that offers better contrast against lighter backgrounds and can be used to draw attention to specific elements.
Applications
Professional Website Design
Congress Blue, #004488, is a sophisticated choice for crafting a professional website design. Its depth evokes trust and reliability, suitable for corporate sites, financial institutions, or legal firms. The color can be used as a primary color for headings, buttons, and navigational elements. To enhance user experience, pair it with clean, minimalistic layouts and ample white space. Complementary colors like a muted yellow or a light gray can be introduced to provide visual balance and prevent the design from feeling too heavy. Subtle animations and interactive elements can further elevate the site's appeal and engagement.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, Congress Blue offers a versatile option for creating elegant and timeless looks. As a solid color for dresses or suits, it exudes confidence and sophistication, ideal for formal events or business settings. It pairs well with neutral accessories like beige or gray, or can be complemented with bolder choices like a gold or emerald green for added flair. The color also works effectively as an accent in patterns such as stripes or florals. When used in outerwear, it provides a classic alternative to black or navy, offering a refined aesthetic that transcends seasonal trends.
Interior Design
Congress Blue provides a calming yet elegant backdrop for bedroom walls, promoting relaxation and rest. It can be used as an accent color in living rooms or home offices, adding a touch of sophistication and depth. Combine with neutral furniture and pops of brighter colors for a contemporary style or pair with antique wooden pieces and textured fabrics for a traditional aesthetic.