Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #07428B, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, authority, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.75% red, 25.88% green, and 54.51% blue. The color is often associated with government institutions, financial organizations, and academic environments. It communicates professionalism and reliability, making it a popular choice for branding and design in these sectors. Congress Blue can be used to create a sense of seriousness and sophistication, and it pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige. In color psychology, blue is often linked to calmness, intelligence, and efficiency, and Congress Blue amplifies these qualities with its depth and richness.
The hex color #07428b, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background or text color. Its low lightness value of approximately 18% means it offers limited contrast against darker shades, making it difficult to read text rendered in dark colors. To ensure inclusivity, it's crucial to use it with very light colors like white (#ffffff) or very light grays for text or interface elements. When using it as a background, ensure foreground elements offer sufficient contrast, ideally meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards with a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Avoid pairing it with similar dark hues to prevent readability issues for users with visual impairments. Thoughtful application is key to making content accessible and user-friendly.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5cb8
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast for text.
- #333333
A more neutral dark color that can be used in place of Congress Blue for better accessibility in some contexts.
- #002147
Oxford Blue is another deep blue color that offers a classic and sophisticated look, while potentially providing slightly better readability depending on the specific context.
Applications
Website Header/Sidebar Background
Congress Blue can be used to create a sense of trust and authority in web design. It is suitable for the header or sidebar backgrounds of websites for financial institutions or government agencies. The color creates a professional and serious look, suitable for organizations conveying important information. Consider it for call-to-action buttons, coupled with a lighter, contrasting color for the text, to draw attention and encourage user engagement.
Formal Wear
This shade of blue exudes a sense of stability and is often utilized in creating formal wear, such as suits or dresses. The color choice makes a garment appear sophisticated and elegant, suitable for corporate environments and special events. It is a popular selection for uniforms in industries where a sense of authority and dependability are desired, like law enforcement or security services. Accessorize it with silver or gold to add a touch of luxury.
Interior Design Accent
Congress Blue can be an excellent choice for interior design projects aimed at creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in living rooms or bedrooms as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. Pair it with neutral colors like beige or gray to balance the intensity and create a serene living space. Metallic accents in gold or copper can further enhance the luxurious feel of the room. Consider using it for curtains or rugs to add depth and richness to the overall design.