Congress Blue
General Information About Congress Blue
The hexadecimal color #024396, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue. It is composed of 0.78% red, 26.27% green, and 58.82% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as rgb(2, 67, 150). In the CMYK color space, it is composed of 98.67% cyan, 55.33% magenta, 0% yellow and 41.18% black. Congress Blue typically evokes feelings of trust, stability, and formality. Its depth makes it suitable for applications where a sense of authority or reliability is desired. It can be used to convey seriousness and professionalism and therefore commonly used in corporate branding. Furthermore, it is often associated with governmental institutions, hence its name, giving it a sense of establishment. In designs, Congress Blue can provide a strong foundation or act as a contrasting accent, depending on the context.
The hex color #024396, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it demands careful consideration of the background color. Due to its darkness, it necessitates a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Failure to meet these contrast requirements can render content inaccessible to a significant portion of users. Using tools to assess contrast ratios is essential during the design process. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements; always provide additional cues like underlines or icons to ensure usability for colorblind users. It is therefore crucial to consider accessible design principles when implementing this color in digital interfaces.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements while still maintaining a professional appearance.
- #6a5acd
A less saturated blue that is easier on the eyes and can be used for larger blocks of text or backgrounds.
Applications
Financial Website Design
Congress Blue can be used to evoke feelings of trust and stability, making it an excellent choice for websites in the financial sector. The color can be incorporated into the header, navigation menu, and as accents throughout the site to reinforce the brand's message of reliability. Furthermore it should be part of graphs and charts to create a professional look. Also, ensure sufficient contrast with text and background colors to maintain readability and accessibility for all users.
Interior Design: Study Room
Congress Blue is a solid choice for creating a sense of depth and sophistication. It works well as a base color for walls or as an accent in furniture and decor. When combined with lighter neutrals or metallic accents, it can create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Congress Blue is perfectly suitable for study rooms or home libraries.
Fashion Design: Formal Wear
Congress Blue can be used in fashion design to create garments that are both stylish and professional. A Congress Blue blazer or dress can be a versatile addition to any wardrobe, suitable for both formal and casual occasions. Pair it with neutral colors such as white, gray, or beige for a classic look. Alternatively, combine it with brighter colors like yellow or pink for a bolder and more modern style.