Congress Blue
General Information
Congress Blue, represented by the hex code #064C92, is a deep, muted shade of blue often associated with sophistication, stability, and trust. Its color composition is characterized by low saturation and relatively low brightness, which gives it a subdued and serious tone. In the RGB color model, it consists of 2.4% red, 29.8% green, and 57.3% blue. This precise blend results in a color that evokes feelings of reliability and professionalism. It is frequently employed in contexts where credibility and composure are essential. Its subdued nature allows it to be versatile across different design applications, effectively creating a sense of authority and understated elegance.
The hex color #064C92, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its low lightness value means it requires careful consideration when paired with other colors. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. When used as a text color, #064C92 needs to be paired with a very light background to meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. When used for non-text elements like icons or graphical components, the contrast ratio requirement is 3:1 against adjacent colors. Avoid pairing #064C92 with dark or similarly muted colors, as this can make content difficult to perceive for users with low vision or color blindness. Ensuring adequate contrast enhances usability for all users, regardless of visual abilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e73b4
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a professional appearance while improving contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that stands out more prominently and enhances visibility in various applications.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray that provides high contrast as an alternative to the dark blue.
Applications
Web Design and User Interfaces
Congress Blue is an excellent choice for crafting a professional and trustworthy atmosphere in web design. It can be used for headers, navigation bars, and button backgrounds on corporate websites or institutional platforms, conveying stability and reliability. When designing financial dashboards, this color can highlight critical data points and improve overall user comprehension. Using #064C92 sparingly as a background for data visualization elements ensures the content is easily digestible. This color should be paired with contrasting text colors, such as white or light gray, to ensure readability and accessibility standards are met.
Product Packaging
Congress Blue offers a refined and calming background for product packaging design. Consider using it for high-end beauty products or sophisticated technological gadgets to emphasize trust and sophistication. It can also be incorporated in accent details, such as logos or labels, on pharmaceutical or healthcare packaging, evoking security and reliability. Its understated elegance makes products stand out on store shelves. When paired with gold or silver accents, #064C92 contributes to a premium aesthetic. Balancing the dark hue with light and clean typography ensures the product information remains readable and attractive.
Branding and Corporate Identity
Congress Blue can play a crucial role in branding by instilling a sense of trustworthiness and professionalism. It's ideally suited for financial institutions, legal firms, and educational organizations seeking to establish credibility. The color can be used across various branding materials, including logos, business cards, and letterheads, to maintain a consistent brand identity. Ensure that the brand guidelines specify the appropriate contrast ratios for both print and digital applications. This color fosters a sense of security, which strengthens the overall brand image and fosters lasting relationships with clients and partners.