Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color code #014C97, also referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark, saturated blue hue. It is composed of 0.4% red, 29.8% green, and 59.2% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:1, G:76, and B:151. In the CMYK color space, its composition is 99% cyan, 49.7% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40.8% black. Congress Blue is often associated with trustworthiness, stability, and professionalism, making it a popular choice for corporate branding, government websites, and formal designs. The color evokes a sense of authority and reliability, making it suitable for applications where trust and credibility are important.
The color #014C97, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background. Its low lightness value results in insufficient contrast, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Congress Blue often falls short of these recommendations, requiring careful consideration of its use. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with lighter shades or using it for larger text elements. Providing sufficient contrast ensures that content is perceivable and usable for a wider audience, including individuals with low vision or color blindness. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools can help ensure compliance with WCAG standards and improve the overall user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments while maintaining a professional appearance.
- #003366
A deeper, richer blue that provides a strong visual impact and better contrast than Congress Blue, ensuring readability and visual appeal.
- #0066cc
A color with increased brightness improves readability, especially for users with low vision. Good option for headings and key information.
Applications
Branding for Law Firms
Congress Blue is suitable for crafting sophisticated and trustworthy branding materials. Its deep hue conveys a sense of authority and stability, making it ideal for logos, websites, and marketing collateral in industries such as finance, law, and government. The color can be effectively used to establish a strong brand identity, instilling confidence and reliability in the target audience. Furthermore, its versatility allows it to be combined with various complementary colors to create visually appealing and impactful designs, ensuring a lasting impression.
Website Navigation Menus
In web design, Congress Blue can be utilized to create elegant and professional website layouts. It can be incorporated into navigation menus, headings, and call-to-action buttons, providing a cohesive and visually appealing user experience. The color's calming effect can also enhance user engagement and encourage exploration of the website's content. Additionally, Congress Blue can be paired with lighter shades of blue or complementary colors to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing design, ensuring a positive and memorable user experience.
User Interface Elements
Congress Blue can be implemented in user interface (UI) design to improve the accessibility and aesthetics of digital products. It can be used in button design, icons and other interactive elements. The hue ensures readability and ease of navigation. The color's professional and trustworthy feel also enhances the overall user experience, making digital products more intuitive and engaging.