Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #01419A, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with qualities such as trust, stability, and authority. In terms of color theory, it is a cool color, which can evoke feelings of calmness and serenity. Congress Blue is frequently used in corporate branding, government institutions, and educational settings to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. Its hexadecimal representation, #01419A, indicates the specific proportions of red, green, and blue that combine to create this particular shade. The RGB values are Red: 1, Green: 65, Blue: 154. The CMYK values are Cyan: 99, Magenta: 58, Yellow: 0, Black: 40. This color is more suitable for print than for digital environments because of its deepness. The closest web safe color is #003399.
The hex color #01419A, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. When using this color for text, consider a very dark background. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Avoid using #01419A for small text or important icons without careful consideration of the background color. Also, bear in mind that individuals with visual impairments might perceive colors differently, so testing with diverse user groups is advisable. Using it for decorative elements poses fewer accessibility concerns, but always prioritize clear and understandable information for all users. Ensuring proper color contrast enhances the usability of web content for people with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A slightly lighter blue offers improved readability and contrast when paired with darker text.
- #002663
A darker shade of blue provides better contrast as a text color against lighter backgrounds.
- #5f9ea0
A muted gray-blue offers a softer, more neutral alternative that can be easier on the eyes and more versatile in design.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue (#01419A) can be used as a primary color for headers, buttons, and other interactive elements to create a sense of trust and reliability. Its deep hue can effectively draw attention to important calls-to-action. It is also useful in navigation bars and footers to establish a strong visual hierarchy. When using this color, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain accessibility standards. Consider pairing it with lighter shades or complementary colors for a balanced aesthetic. This color could also be used to highlight data visualizations.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue (#01419A) evokes a feeling of sophistication and calm. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a focal point. When paired with neutral colors like beige or gray, it adds a touch of elegance and depth. It is also suitable for furniture upholstery, such as sofas or armchairs, to introduce a rich, saturated hue. Consider using it in home offices to foster a sense of focus and productivity. Accessorize with metallic accents for a luxurious feel.
Fashion
Congress Blue (#01419A) can be incorporated into fashion through clothing, accessories, or accents. A dress or suit in this color can project an air of confidence and professionalism. It is also fitting for accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to an outfit. In menswear, consider using it for ties, pocket squares, or blazers. Pair it with neutral colors like white, black, or gray for a classic look, or combine it with complementary colors for a bolder statement. This hue lends itself well to both formal and casual styles.