Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #004A80, also referred to as Congress Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0% red, 29.02% green, and 50.2% blue. Its CMYK values are 100% cyan, 42% magenta, 0% yellow, and 50% black. This color conveys a sense of authority, stability, and trustworthiness. It is often associated with corporate environments, government institutions, and academic settings. Congress Blue is suitable for designs that aim to project professionalism, reliability, and a sense of calm confidence. The color is well-suited for creating a strong and dependable visual impression. Its depth allows for effective contrast with lighter colors.
The hex color #004a80, also known as Congress Blue, presents certain accessibility considerations for web development. When used as a background color, sufficient contrast with text is crucial. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color may require light-colored text to meet these standards. It's important to test the color combination with accessibility tools to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information; use supplementary cues like text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity. Providing alternative styling options or high-contrast themes can further enhance accessibility for users with specific needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast with dark text, improving readability and accessibility, while maintaining a similar cool and professional feel.
- #002240
A darker shade provides a stronger, more authoritative feel and can be used to create emphasis or visual hierarchy in designs, while still complementing the original color.
- #0056b3
A color with enhanced accessibility, ensuring readability for a wider audience, in alignment with WCAG guidelines.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue can be utilized for navigation bars and headers to convey a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness. Its depth provides a stable foundation for content, while its blue hue evokes calmness and security. It pairs well with lighter shades to create visual balance. It also works well with shades of grey, creating a professional look for websites of corporations or academic institutions. Ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements is a must, for optimal readability and accessibility.
Branding
This color is suitable for creating corporate logos and branding materials that need to convey stability, reliability, and professionalism. The deep blue inspires confidence and can be used effectively across various mediums, from business cards to presentations. It is often found to be used by financial institutions due to the associations of trust and professionalism. Using it sparingly as an accent color can create a memorable brand mark.
Interior Design
Congress Blue can be used in interior design to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces to add depth and richness to a space. The color pairs well with neutral tones and natural materials like wood and stone, contributing to a balanced and inviting environment. It is especially effective in studies or home offices, promoting focus and concentration. Adding metallic accents such as gold or silver enhances the luxurious appearance.