Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #034E95, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a deep and sophisticated shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.18% red, 30.59% green, and 58.82% blue. This combination creates a color that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. Congress Blue is often associated with governmental institutions, financial organizations, and educational establishments, owing to its serious and dependable nature. In color psychology, blue is known to promote calmness, focus, and reliability. Its subtle depth makes it a versatile choice for various design applications, from digital interfaces to branding materials. Its CMYK values are C:98, M:48, Y:0, K:41. This translates to a color requiring a high percentage of Cyan and Magenta to achieve it's dark blue hue.
The hex color #034E95, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to pair it with text or foreground elements that offer sufficient contrast to ensure readability. 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. Therefore, light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of yellow or gray would be suitable choices for text or interactive elements placed on a #034E95 background. Testing with accessibility tools is recommended to verify compliance. Conversely, using similar dark shades for text on this background could render the content illegible for users with visual impairments. Thoughtful consideration of color combinations is essential to create an inclusive and accessible user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A slightly lighter blue that still evokes a sense of trust and professionalism but offers better contrast against darker text.
- #1e88e5
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to key elements while maintaining a sense of stability.
- #003366
This dark blue is a versatile choice for backgrounds and text, offering a sophisticated and calming aesthetic.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Congress Blue (#034E95) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to establish a sense of authority and trustworthiness. Its deep, calming hue can create a professional atmosphere, particularly suitable for businesses in finance, law, or government sectors. Using this color sparingly for key interactive elements like buttons and links can also guide user attention without overwhelming the visual design. The color’s inherent formality makes it ideal for communicating stability and reliability in digital interfaces.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Congress Blue is ideal for creating a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, or as the primary color in a study or home office to promote concentration and focus. This color pairs well with neutral tones like beige and gray, as well as natural materials like wood and stone, to create a balanced and harmonious space. It's also a great choice for upholstery and soft furnishings, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to any room.
Formal Wear
Congress Blue can be used in fashion for elegant and understated pieces. It is particularly suitable for formal wear, such as suits, dresses, and evening gowns. The color conveys a sense of professionalism and sophistication, making it ideal for business attire or special occasions. It can be paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or black for a classic look, or with metallic accents like gold or silver for a touch of glamour. The versatility of this color makes it a great addition to any wardrobe, offering a timeless and stylish option for various occasions.