Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #004898, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, authority, and professionalism. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0% red, 28.2% green, and 59.6% blue. This combination results in a deep, saturated hue that is often associated with governmental institutions and established organizations. Congress Blue is frequently used in branding and design to convey a sense of stability and reliability. In color psychology, blue is known to promote calmness and focus, making it suitable for environments where concentration and clear thinking are valued. It is important to consider its luminance when using this color in web design to ensure readability and accessibility. Its hex code makes it easy to integrate into digital platforms and design software.
The hex color #004898, also known as Congress Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Its dark hue results in a low luminance value, which is crucial for ensuring sufficient contrast against lighter background colors. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. When using #004898 for text, it is imperative to pair it with a light color such as white or a very light shade of gray to meet these contrast requirements. Failure to do so can render text illegible for many users, especially those with low vision or color blindness. Furthermore, avoid using this color for essential UI elements without proper contrast, as it can hinder usability and navigation for a significant portion of your audience. Always test color combinations using accessibility tools to confirm compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against dark backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #4682b4
A more neutral blue that can be used in a wider range of design contexts without overwhelming the user.
- #0056b3
This color is similar to congress blue, but it offers better readability with white text on the background.
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue can be effectively used in website headers and navigation bars to create a professional and trustworthy impression. Its deep blue tone evokes feelings of stability and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, education, or government sectors. When used sparingly, it can add a touch of sophistication to the overall design. It is recommended to pair this color with lighter shades to ensure optimal readability of the text and important information on the website. Using it as a background color for headings or call-to-action buttons can draw the user's attention and encourage engagement.
Interior Design
In interior design, #004898 can be applied to accent walls or furniture pieces to introduce a sense of depth and elegance to a room. It works well in spaces where a calming and intellectual atmosphere is desired, such as libraries, home offices, or studies. The color can be complemented with warm, natural tones to create a balanced and inviting environment. Consider using it on upholstery or decorative items to add pops of color without overwhelming the space. This could enhance the aesthetic appeal and promote a sense of tranquility.
Corporate Branding
Congress Blue can be used as a base color for corporate branding, for example in logos, websites, and printed materials. This color radiates professionalism and reliability. Because of these qualities it is suitable for corporate identities that are looking to create a feeling of trust.