Congress Blue
General Information
The color #034295, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated blue hue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. It is often associated with institutions, governments, and organizations seeking to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism. This particular shade of blue is characterized by its relatively low lightness value, making it appear quite dark and serious. In terms of color theory, Congress Blue belongs to the blue color family and exhibits strong blue chromaticity. It's commonly used in branding, web design, and print materials where a sense of dependability and competence is desired. The hex code #034295 translates to 1 red, 66 green, and 149 blue in the RGB color model. In the CMYK color model, it is approximately 99 cyan, 56 magenta, 0 yellow, and 42 black.
The hex color #034295, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Due to its dark hue, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used with text or other interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. When using #034295 as a background, it is recommended to pair it with light-colored text such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very light shade of gray to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance and suggest alternative color pairings if needed. It's also important to consider users with color vision deficiencies. Simulating different types of color blindness can reveal potential issues with color combinations and inform design decisions that improve accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue can be effectively employed in website headers and footers to establish a sense of authority and reliability. Its deep, calming tone can help create a professional and trustworthy image for the brand. Furthermore, it's suitable for interactive elements such as buttons and links when paired with appropriate contrasting colors. The strategic use of #034295 in website design can contribute to a cohesive and user-friendly experience, enhancing overall brand perception and user engagement. It's particularly fitting for websites in the fields of finance, education, and government.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Congress Blue can be utilized as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works particularly well in spaces designed for relaxation, such as bedrooms or studies. When combined with neutral tones like beige or gray, #034295 can create a calming and inviting atmosphere. It is also an excellent choice for textiles, such as curtains or upholstery, where its rich hue can bring a touch of elegance and refinement. Complementary colors like mustard yellow or coral can be used to create a visually appealing contrast, adding vibrancy and interest to the space.
Fashion
In the world of fashion, Congress Blue offers a versatile option for creating both casual and formal looks. It is an excellent choice for staple pieces such as blazers, trousers, and dresses, lending an air of sophistication and professionalism. The color pairs well with a variety of other hues, including white, gray, and black, making it easy to create classic and timeless outfits. Additionally, Congress Blue can be used as an accent color in accessories such as scarves and handbags, adding a touch of elegance to any ensemble. Its rich and calming tone makes it a great choice for both warm and cool skin tones.