Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #024496, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its rich and sophisticated tone. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.78% red, 26.67% green, and 58.82% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 99% cyan, 54% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. Congress Blue evokes a sense of formality, trustworthiness, and stability. The color is used in various applications, including branding, web design, and fashion, due to its association with professionalism and reliability. Its hex triplet is #024496 and its RAL design code is 260 20 10. This colour is named Congress Blue for its use within the US congress. Its wavelength is 473.71 nm.
The color #024496, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text on a white background, or vice versa, it may not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios, especially for users with low vision or color blindness. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color might require careful pairing with lighter shades of yellow, white, or other very light colors to ensure readability and usability. It is imperative to test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify compliance and provide an inclusive user experience. Designers and developers should also consider providing alternative color schemes or themes to allow users to customize their viewing experience based on their individual needs. Using this dark blue as a background might also require light text to ensure a good reading experience. Careful consideration and testing are essential for making content accessible to all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers
Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be used in website headers to create a professional and trustworthy look. Its depth makes it ideal for establishing a strong brand identity. For example, financial institutions or educational websites might use this color to convey stability and reliability. Used carefully, it can guide users through the website's navigation while maintaining a clean and organized appearance. It also serves as a strong background color for call-to-action buttons, or in combination with ligher fonts, providing a sense of importance without being visually distracting.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, Congress Blue serves as an excellent choice for formal wear, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance. It's a popular color for suits, dresses, and even accessories. Its understated yet powerful presence makes it suitable for both men's and women's clothing. This color pairs well with neutral tones such as gray, white, or beige, allowing it to stand out without being overwhelming. It's also a sophisticated choice for branding and logos.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Congress Blue is suitable as an accent color to create a calming and sophisticated ambiance. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative elements such as curtains, pillows, or rugs. Its deep, rich tone adds depth and character to a room. This color works well in studies, living rooms, or bedrooms where a sense of tranquility is desired. Pairing it with lighter shades of white, gray, or beige creates a balanced and harmonious space. This color can also be used as the background of a digital painting.