Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #034c95, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue with a hint of green undertone. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with qualities such as trust, stability, and professionalism. In the RGB color model, #034c95 consists of 1.18% red, 29.8% green, and 58.43% blue. The CMYK values are 97% cyan, 49% magenta, 0% yellow, and 42% black. This color is commonly used in corporate branding, government websites, and academic institutions to convey a sense of authority and reliability. Its historical association with governmental entities has further cemented its reputation as a color of power and integrity. Due to its low lightness value, it is best used with contrasting colors to ensure readability and visual clarity.
The hex color #034c95, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Due to its relatively dark hue, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used as a background or text color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) against its background. When using #034c95 for text, it's advisable to pair it with a light color such as white (#ffffff) or a pale yellow to meet these contrast requirements. If using it as a background, ensure that the foreground text is light enough to provide adequate readability for users with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can help you verify that your color combinations meet accessibility standards, contributing to a more inclusive web experience. Also, avoid using color alone to convey important information; supplement it with text or other visual cues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- 1e90ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue, #1e90ff offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- 000080
Navy blue (#000080) provides a classic and reliable alternative for situations where high contrast is required.
- 4682b4
Steel blue (#4682b4) is a more muted and versatile color that works well in a variety of designs.
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue can be effectively used in website headers and footers to establish a sense of professionalism and trust. Its dark tone provides a strong visual anchor, allowing for clear contrast with navigational elements and content sections. Consider using it with a light-colored font such as white or a very light gray to ensure readability. Additionally, the color can be employed for call-to-action buttons, particularly when seeking to convey reliability and importance. The sophisticated nature of Congress Blue makes it an ideal choice for websites in the finance, legal, and government sectors.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It's suitable for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, especially when paired with neutral colors like beige or gray. This deep blue shade can also be incorporated through furniture upholstery or decorative accessories such as cushions and throws. The color evokes feelings of stability and elegance, making it appropriate for spaces where relaxation and contemplation are desired. Furthermore, it can be used in home offices to promote focus and productivity.
Fashion Industry
Congress Blue is a popular choice in the fashion industry for formal wear and corporate attire. It exudes professionalism and confidence, making it ideal for suits, blazers, and dresses intended for business settings. The color can also be used in accessories such as ties, scarves, and handbags to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Due to its versatility, Congress Blue complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with a range of colors, from neutral shades to bolder accents. It is a timeless color that remains consistently stylish and appropriate for numerous occasions.