Congress Blue
General Information
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #064F95, is a deep and rich shade of blue that exudes a sense of authority and sophistication. It is often associated with institutions, government entities, and corporate branding, conveying trustworthiness and stability. This color is composed of 2.4% red, 31% green, and 58.8% blue. In the RGB color space, it is closer to blue than green. Its CMYK values are 97% cyan, 45% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. The color's name, Congress Blue, suggests a connection to governmental or political environments, further reinforcing its association with formality and reliability. Its hex code makes it easily reproducible across digital platforms, while its RGB and CMYK values allow for accurate color matching in print and web design.
The hex color #064f95, also known as Congress Blue, presents specific accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance value. When used as a foreground color against a white background, it can result in poor contrast, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read the text. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Congress Blue often falls short of these recommendations. Therefore, it is crucial to pair this color with lighter backgrounds or use it for decorative elements where readability is not the primary concern. When using Congress Blue for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues are provided to meet accessibility standards. Employing tools to check color contrast ratios is highly recommended to ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines, providing a more inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, ensuring readability for users with visual impairments.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to provide a more balanced contrast with Congress Blue.
- #d0e9ff
A very light tint of blue for backgrounds that still conveys a sense of the primary color while remaining accessible.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Congress Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for a corporate website. Its deep hue evokes trust and reliability, making it suitable for headers, footers, and accent elements. However, ensure that text using this color has adequate contrast against the background to maintain readability. Consider using it sparingly to highlight important calls to action or key information, paired with lighter backgrounds for optimal accessibility. Complementary colors such as yellows or oranges can be incorporated to create visual interest and balance the overall design, enhancing user experience.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Congress Blue can serve as a versatile base color for creating elegant and classic outfits. It works well for suits, dresses, or accessories, providing a sense of depth and sophistication. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige for a timeless look, or add pops of brighter colors like coral or mustard yellow for a more contemporary feel. Consider using it in textured fabrics like velvet or wool to enhance its visual appeal and create a luxurious feel. The color’s versatility allows it to be dressed up or down, making it suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
Interior Design
For interior design, Congress Blue can be used to create a calming and refined atmosphere in living spaces or bedrooms. It is suitable for walls, upholstery, or decorative accents, providing a sense of tranquility and sophistication. Consider using it in combination with lighter colors like cream or white to balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling too heavy. Natural materials such as wood or stone can complement the color beautifully, adding warmth and texture to the space. Use metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its elegance and create a luxurious ambiance.