Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #004C9B, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep and rich shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its strong, authoritative presence. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0 red, 76 green, and 155 blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 100% cyan, 51% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39% black. This color is often associated with qualities such as trust, stability, and professionalism. It is a popular choice for corporate branding, government websites, and other applications where a sense of authority and reliability is desired. Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be used in a variety of design contexts, from print to digital media.
The hex color #004c9b, also known as Congress Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively dark hue means it requires careful pairing with lighter text or interface elements to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Using this color for text on a white background may not meet these standards, necessitating a lighter color choice for readability. When using #004c9b as a background color, light yellows, whites, or very light grays can provide the necessary contrast. Additionally, it's crucial to consider users with color vision deficiencies. Tools for simulating color blindness can help evaluate whether the color scheme remains accessible to everyone, or if alternative color combinations are required. Remember to test your designs with different accessibility evaluation tools.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #336699
A slightly lighter blue offers better contrast on white backgrounds, improving readability for a wider audience.
- #003366
A darker shade provides a stronger contrast when paired with light text, ensuring accessibility for users with visual impairments.
- #4f5d75
A desaturated blue can be less visually overwhelming while still providing a professional look.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Congress Blue (#004C9B) is a strong and reliable color choice for corporate website designs. It conveys a sense of professionalism, trust, and stability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, law, or technology. The color can be effectively used in website headers, navigation menus, and as an accent color for call-to-action buttons. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, light gray, and beige, creating a clean and modern aesthetic. Furthermore, using #004C9B for charts and graphs can enhance data visualization, providing a clear and easily understandable presentation of information.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue (#004C9B) can add a touch of sophistication and depth to a room. It works well as an accent wall color or for upholstery on furniture pieces. The color creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere, making it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. When paired with warm neutrals like cream or beige, #004C9B can create a balanced and inviting space. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can further enhance the elegance of the color scheme. For a bolder look, consider pairing it with complementary colors like yellow or orange.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, Congress Blue (#004C9B) serves as a versatile and sophisticated color choice. It is suitable for creating timeless and elegant pieces, ranging from formal wear to casual attire. The color is particularly well-suited for suits, dresses, and outerwear, conveying a sense of confidence and professionalism. When paired with neutral tones like white, black, or gray, #004C9B can create a classic and refined look. For a more daring and modern style, it can be combined with contrasting colors such as mustard yellow, coral, or fuchsia. Accessories in metallic tones can further enhance the overall aesthetic.