Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #054696, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trust, and authority. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.0% red, 27.5% green, and 58.8% blue. It is frequently used in branding and design where a sense of reliability and professionalism is desired. The color’s historical association with governmental and institutional settings lends it an air of formality. Color theory places Congress Blue within the blue color family, known for its calming and intellectual qualities. This makes it suitable for applications ranging from corporate logos to website backgrounds where creating a sense of calm trustworthiness is essential. This color is also known as a dark, desaturated cyan.
The hex color #054696, also known as Congress Blue, presents specific accessibility considerations for web development. With its dark hue, sufficient contrast is crucial when used as either text or background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text against its background to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Insufficient contrast can make content difficult or impossible to perceive, leading to a frustrating user experience. Therefore, pairing #054696 with light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays enhances accessibility. Tools like contrast checkers can accurately assess contrast ratios to meet accessibility standards and improve the usability of web content for a wider audience. Always test your color combinations with accessibility in mind.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue provides a sophisticated and calming backdrop for websites in the tech or finance industries. Its depth conveys trustworthiness and stability. Used sparingly for headers, buttons, or accents, it adds a touch of professionalism without overwhelming the user. Combining it with clean, minimalist designs and ample white space creates a modern and user-friendly experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #054696 can be used as an accent color in a room with neutral walls and furniture. A throw blanket, some cushions, or a piece of artwork in this shade of blue can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space. The color is calming and sophisticated and will allow a room to appear serious and professional.
Business Cards
Congress Blue is a versatile color that evokes feelings of trust and authority, making it ideal for business cards in formal industries. When you are an attorney, consultant, or another type of advisor, this color is perfect. Pairing #054696 with a simple, clean design and high-quality paper stock projects an image of professionalism and reliability. This ensures that the first impression is confident and credible.