Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #055196, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, authority, and stability. It is often associated with governmental institutions, financial organizations, and educational establishments, reflecting its connotations of professionalism and reliability. In the RGB color model, #055196 consists of 2% red, 32% green, and 59% blue. This color's deep, calming nature makes it suitable for designs where a sense of seriousness and dependability is desired. Its low lightness value should be considered in accessibility contexts, requiring high contrast with text and other foreground elements.
The hex color #055196, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in scenarios involving text. Due to its low lightness value, it requires careful consideration to ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements like text or icons. When using this color for backgrounds, pairing it with light or white text is highly recommended to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is crucial for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. In user interface design, avoid using this color for essential interactive elements without providing adequate visual cues and sufficient contrast. Testing with accessibility tools and simulations for color blindness is vital to guarantee usability for a broader audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue (#055196) can be employed to evoke feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. It's particularly well-suited for websites in the finance, government, or education sectors. This color can be used for headers, footers, and navigation bars to create a cohesive and authoritative brand image. Its depth can also serve as an accent color when paired with lighter, contrasting hues, ensuring a visually appealing and balanced layout. Incorporating it in charts and graphs can give a professional and serious impression to data visualization.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to bring depth and richness to the space. Pair it with neutral tones like beige, cream, or light gray to balance its intensity. For a bolder look, complement it with pops of yellow or orange. Additionally, it is suitable for upholstery and decorative accessories, adding elegance and a touch of formality to the interior setting. Use it to paint a piece of furniture.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Congress Blue offers a versatile option for creating both formal and casual looks. It can be used in business suits, blazers, or dresses to convey professionalism and sophistication. When paired with lighter colors like white or pastel shades, it creates a refreshing and elegant ensemble. For a more casual aesthetic, combine it with denim or khaki tones. Additionally, Congress Blue can be used for accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes, adding a touch of understated elegance to any outfit.