Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
#034894, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated blue color with a formal and trustworthy character. It's a color often associated with stability, authority, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding in governmental, financial, and educational institutions. In the RGB color model, #034894 is composed of 1.18% red, 28.24% green, and 58.04% blue. Its CMYK values are 97% cyan, 68% magenta, 0% yellow, and 42% black. The hexadecimal representation provides a concise way to define this specific shade of blue in digital contexts, commonly used in web design and graphic design software. Its relatively low lightness value means it can create a strong contrast when paired with lighter colors, but careful consideration is needed to ensure accessibility.
The hex color #034894, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background. Its low luminance value of approximately 3 makes it difficult to read for individuals with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between the text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. #034894 fails to meet these contrast requirements on a white background, posing usability problems. To enhance accessibility, consider using #034894 for larger elements or pairing it with much lighter background colors. You can also use it as a background color, using very light colors for text. Providing sufficient contrast ensures that the content is accessible to a wider range of users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Always test color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools to confirm compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2979ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #001a33
A darker shade that can be used for text on lighter backgrounds, providing strong contrast.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant, attention-grabbing blue suitable for highlighting important elements.
Applications
Web Design and UI
In web design, #034894 can serve as a primary color for navigational elements, providing a professional and trustworthy feel. It can also be applied to button backgrounds, especially when paired with lighter text colors to ensure readability. Furthermore, #034894 is well-suited for creating data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, where its deep hue can effectively represent different categories or values. In user interface design, this color evokes a sense of reliability and sophistication, making it a solid choice for financial or governmental applications.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can add a touch of sophistication and depth to spaces. It works effectively as an accent color in rooms with neutral palettes. Consider using it for feature walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories to introduce a calming yet stylish element. The color's deep tone can create a sense of tranquility and professionalism, making it suitable for home offices or living rooms. It also pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the space.
Fashion
In fashion, #034894 can be used to create elegant and timeless looks. It's a versatile color that works well for both formal and casual wear. Consider using it for dresses, suits, or outerwear to convey a sense of confidence and sophistication. It can also be incorporated into accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to an outfit. The color pairs beautifully with neutral tones like beige, gray, and white, as well as with metallic accents like gold and silver.