Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #064A8F, is a deep and sophisticated shade of blue. This color is often associated with qualities like intelligence, stability, unity, and conservatism. In color psychology, blue is known to evoke feelings of calmness and serenity. The specific shade of Congress Blue carries a sense of authority and trust, making it a popular choice in contexts where these qualities are desired. This particular hue is created by mixing a small amount of red and green with a larger proportion of blue in the RGB color model. The hex code translates to 6 parts red, 74 parts green, and 143 parts blue out of a possible 255 for each color. It can be used in various digital and print media applications. Due to its dark nature, it should be used carefully with lighter text or background to maintain readability.
The hex color #064A8F, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), the minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1 and for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) it is 3:1. Using online contrast checkers is highly recommended to verify that the color combinations meet these standards. If the contrast is insufficient, consider using a lighter shade of background color or a darker text color to improve readability for users with visual impairments. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information. Supplement color cues with text labels, icons, or other visual indicators to ensure that all users can understand the content, regardless of their ability to perceive color differences.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e9afe
A slightly lighter shade of blue that can offer improved contrast on white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #032b54
A darker shade that provides better contrast when used as text on a light background.
- #335c7a
A desaturated version of the original color, providing a more muted and subtle look while potentially improving readability in certain contexts.
Applications
Website Navigation Bars
Congress Blue can be employed as the primary color for navigation bars in websites or applications, creating a professional and trustworthy feel. Its depth suggests reliability, making it suitable for sites that handle sensitive user information. In this application, ensure that text and icons used on the navigation bar have sufficient contrast against the blue background to maintain accessibility. Furthermore, the color can be used to highlight active navigation items or provide visual cues for user interaction.
Data Visualization
In the realm of data visualization, Congress Blue can be utilized to represent specific data sets or categories within charts and graphs. Its distinct hue helps differentiate it from other colors, enhancing clarity and understanding. For example, it could represent sales figures for a particular region in a bar chart or a specific market segment in a pie chart. However, always pair it with appropriate labels and legends to ensure that the information is accessible to all users, including those with color vision deficiencies.
Branding Materials
Congress Blue can be incorporated into branding materials to evoke feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence. Its use on business cards, letterheads, and company logos can communicate professionalism and reliability to potential clients and partners. The color's association with authority and competence makes it a solid choice for businesses in sectors such as finance, law, and technology. When applying Congress Blue in branding, it is essential to consider how it interacts with other brand colors and design elements.