Congress Blue
General Information
The hex color #014086, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue often associated with stability, trustworthiness, and authority. It's a color that evokes a sense of calmness and reliability, making it a popular choice in corporate branding and design. The color is created by mixing a small amount of red and green with a larger amount of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0.4% red, 25.1% green, and 52.5% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is used for printing, it comprises 99% cyan, 52% magenta, 0% yellow, and 47% black. This color is often used to represent large corporations, governmental or political institutions, due to its high professionalism.
The hex color #014086, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Given the darkness of #014086, lighter colors like white, yellow, or very light grays are generally needed to meet these contrast requirements. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be invaluable in verifying compliance. It is also important to consider users with visual impairments or color blindness. Providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, alongside color can enhance usability. Avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue, #014086, can be utilized as a primary color for website headers and navigation bars, conveying a sense of professionalism and trust. Its dark hue provides a strong visual anchor at the top of the page, guiding users through the site's structure. Consider pairing it with lighter accent colors for call-to-action buttons and interactive elements, ensuring clear visibility and usability. The deep blue can also be effectively used in data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, to represent key metrics and trends. This ensures that important data stands out, improving the audience's ability to process and understand the information presented. It works well for companies in finance, technology or law.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can add a touch of sophistication to walls, furniture, or accent pieces. Its deep, calming tone creates a relaxing atmosphere, making it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. The color is extremely well-suited for furniture applications, as it can provide elegance to chairs, sofas, or desks. It is also suitable for curtains or carpets, especially in spaces like bedrooms, home offices, or living rooms. Combine it with neutral hues like cream, beige, or gray to create a balanced and harmonious living space. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can further enhance the luxurious feel.
Branding and Fashion
Congress Blue is ideal for creating professional and trustworthy branding materials, such as logos, business cards, and letterheads. Its association with stability and authority makes it well-suited for companies in the finance, legal, or technology sectors. In fashion, Congress Blue can be used as a versatile base color for both men's and women's clothing. Its deep shade pairs well with a variety of other colors, allowing for endless styling possibilities. It's a great choice for suits, dresses, or outerwear, conveying a sense of sophistication and confidence. Accessorize with contrasting colors like red or yellow to add a pop of visual interest.