Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hexadecimal color code #004D9B represents a shade of blue often referred to as Congress Blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0% red, 30.2% green, and 61.2% blue. This color is typically associated with feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. It's often used in corporate branding, government institutions, and educational materials to convey reliability and authority. From a color theory perspective, it is a cool color that can evoke a sense of calmness and order. The color is mostly used in situations when the purpose is to create a formal and serious enviornment. This color is a mixture of mostly blue and lower percentages of green and red.
The color #004D9B, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white or light background. Its low luminance value of approximately 0.04 makes it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Congress Blue falls short of these recommendations when paired with light colors. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of the same hue or pairing it with a very light background color to increase contrast. Also, avoid using it for crucial interactive elements without proper visual cues. Providing sufficient contrast will benefit all users, including those with low vision, color blindness, or simply viewing the content in bright sunlight.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Navigation Bars
Congress Blue can be used as the primary color for navigation bars in websites, creating a professional and trustworthy feel. Its serious tone is suitable for sites in corporate, government, or educational fields. When combined with a clean, modern font, it helps establishing a stable and reliable online presence. The color can be used for highlighting active pages or sections, creating a cohesive and user-friendly navigation experience. Using the color as the main element with a proper contrast will improve visibility.
Accent Walls in Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue is ideal for accent walls in living rooms or studies, promoting a sense of calm and focus. This color pairs well with neutral tones like beige, white, or light gray, creating a sophisticated and relaxing environment. It can be further enhanced by incorporating natural wood elements and metallic accents. Consider using it in rooms with plenty of natural light to truly appreciate its depth and richness. The color is perfect for creating a space where one can unwind and recharge after a long day.
Data Visualizations
Congress Blue can be effectively utilized as a key color in data visualizations. This color helps to differentiate data sets in charts and graphs in a clear and professional manner. The color promotes accurate data interpretation while avoiding visual clutter. Use it carefully and consistently to build easy to understand visualizations for every audience. Its calm hue is much better than aggressive colors in this context. The color helps to prevent potential misinterpretations in data presentation.