Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue (#044C83)
The hexadecimal color code #044C83 represents a shade of dark blue, often referred to as Congress Blue. It is composed of 1.57% red, 29.8% green, and 51.37% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 4 red, 76 green, and 131 blue. This color is commonly associated with depth, stability, and trust. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 97% cyan, 42% magenta, 0% yellow, and 49% black. The color is a dark, muted blue, conveying a sense of seriousness and reliability. The wavelength of light that corresponds to this color is approximately 475 nanometers, placing it within the blue portion of the visible spectrum. Congress Blue is a popular choice for corporate branding and government institutions due to its association with professionalism and authority.
The color #044C83, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white or light-colored background. Its low lightness value (approximately 14%) results in a low contrast ratio, which can make it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Congress Blue often falls short of these recommendations, requiring careful consideration of font size, weight, and background color. To improve accessibility, consider using Congress Blue as a background color with white or a very light color text, or pairing it with a brighter, contrasting color for text or interactive elements. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color combinations to meet accessibility standards, ensuring a more inclusive user experience. If using Congress Blue for links ensure sufficient contrast with surrounding text and consider using underlines or other visual cues to highlight them, which will further enhance usability for users with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A slightly lighter blue provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #003366
A darker shade of blue can be used as a background color, providing a sophisticated and calming feel.
- #1e3a8a
This color offers a good compromise between depth and readability, and is great for body text.
Applications
Web Design for Corporate Websites
Congress Blue can be employed to create a sophisticated and trustworthy aesthetic. It's well-suited for backgrounds, headers, and accents. In data visualizations, it can represent a primary data series, offering a clear and professional look. In User Interfaces, the color can be used to denote interactive elements and create a sense of depth, making it intuitive for users to navigate the web application.
Fashion for Professional Attire
This deep blue hue is often associated with loyalty, intelligence, and confidence. It's ideal for suits, formal dresses, and accessories. When paired with neutral tones, it creates a professional and elegant look. This color works well for both daytime and evening wear, exuding a sense of understated power and sophistication.
Interior Design for Relaxing Spaces
Congress Blue lends a sense of calm and stability to interior spaces. It works well in bedrooms, studies, and living rooms, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Use it as an accent color for walls, furniture, or textiles to add depth and character. Pairing it with natural materials and warm lighting enhances its calming effect, resulting in a serene and inviting home environment.