Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
Congress Blue, represented by the hex code #014497, is a deep, rich shade of blue. This color evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority, often associated with governmental and corporate entities. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.4% red, 26.7% green, and 59.2% blue. This color is frequently used in branding and visual design where a sense of professionalism and reliability is desired. Its subdued nature makes it suitable for backgrounds and text, provided adequate contrast is maintained for readability. The color name 'Congress Blue' suggests a connection to American political institutions, further reinforcing its associations with governance and leadership. It is a versatile color that can be combined with various other hues to create different moods and effects, but its inherent seriousness means it is often paired with lighter or more neutral colors to avoid overwhelming the viewer.
The hex color #014497, 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 recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text and user interface components. Given the darkness of #014497, lighter background colors are essential to meet these standards. Using online contrast checkers is advisable to verify compliance. Employing this color with lighter shades of yellow or white could improve legibility and usability, making the content accessible to users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Congress Blue (#014497) can be used in website headers and footers to create a professional and trustworthy appearance. Its deep hue is suitable for conveying stability and authority, making it a great choice for businesses in the financial or legal sectors. Combined with a clean, modern font, it can contribute to a sophisticated online presence, inspiring confidence from visitors.
Call-to-Action Buttons
This color is great for creating call-to-action buttons that stand out without being too aggressive. When used with a contrasting text color, such as white or yellow, it can draw the user's attention effectively. Its subtle yet commanding presence can help increase click-through rates and improve user engagement on websites and applications.
Data Visualization
Congress Blue can be utilized in data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, to represent key data points. Its deep shade is distinct and can add a touch of sophistication to visual presentations. When used alongside other complementary colors, it can help to differentiate between various data sets and improve the overall clarity of the visualization, making it more engaging and informative.