Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #00478F, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated blue hue that evokes feelings of trust, authority, and stability. It is often associated with professionalism, intelligence, and formality, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and governmental institutions. In color psychology, blue is known to promote calmness and serenity, while also suggesting reliability and confidence. This particular shade of blue is frequently used in logos, websites, and marketing materials to convey a sense of dependability and expertise. Its hex code indicates an absence of red and green, with a strong presence of blue, resulting in its distinctive, rich tone. The name 'Congress Blue' suggests its use in governmental or political contexts, further reinforcing its association with authority and trustworthiness.
The hex color #00478f, also known as Congress Blue, presents moderate accessibility challenges. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against white text, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors such as white or very light grays to enhance contrast. Alternatively, using this color for larger text elements or as a background for icons can be effective. Ensure sufficient spacing and size of interactive elements using this color to meet WCAG guidelines for touch targets. It's advisable to test the color combination with accessibility evaluation tools to confirm compliance with accessibility standards, ensuring a better experience for all users, including those with disabilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still conveys professionalism but offers better contrast against white text.
- #003366
A darker shade of blue that provides a stronger, more authoritative feel, suitable for backgrounds or accents.
- #4682B4
A vibrant, complementary blue that is useful to give more contrast on designs.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Congress Blue (#00478F) can be used in website headers and footers to establish a professional and trustworthy brand identity. The deep blue evokes feelings of stability and authority, making it suitable for businesses in the finance, legal, or government sectors. It works well with white or light gray text for clear readability, and can be paired with complementary colors like gold or yellow for accents. Moreover, ensure that the background contrast is sufficient for all users.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Congress Blue can be applied to accent walls or furniture to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, and can be complemented by metallic accents like gold or silver for an elegant touch. Consider using it in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices to create a serene and professional environment. Lighter shades of blue or complementary colors can enhance the overall effect.
Professional Attire
In fashion, Congress Blue is suitable for professional attire such as suits, blazers, and dresses. It can be paired with neutral colors like white, black, or gray for a classic and sophisticated look. Additionally, it serves to create a look that may have both, a professional and trustworthy look. Accessorize with silver or gold jewelry to add elegance. It's a versatile color that can be worn in various settings, from business meetings to formal events.