Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #074491, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It is composed of 2.75% red, 26.67% green, and 56.86% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of R:7, G:68, B:145. The CMYK representation is C:95, M:53, Y:0, K:43. This color is often associated with feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. It is commonly used in corporate branding, government websites, and educational institutions to convey a sense of authority and reliability. The darkness of this shade makes it suitable for backgrounds, text elements, and accents in various design applications. The color is a part of the blue color family. Because it is a darker hue, it is important to consider accessibility when using this color.
The color #074491, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background color for text. Its low lightness value (approximately 14%) means that text needs a very light color to achieve sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text. Using white text (#FFFFFF) on a #074491 background yields a contrast ratio of approximately 14.9:1, which meets the WCAG AAA standard. However, using mid-tone grays or colors will likely fail accessibility checks. For interactive elements like buttons and links, providing a clear visual indication of the hover or focus state is crucial. Additionally, avoid using this color for essential information if a significant portion of your audience has visual impairments, as it may not be easily distinguishable. Testing with accessibility tools and getting feedback from users with disabilities is highly recommended to ensure an inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e86c1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast and visibility, making it easier to use for text and backgrounds.
- #5dade2
A more neutral blue that offers a softer appearance and better compatibility with various color schemes.
- #3498db
A bright blue, which can provide a visually appealing alternative while maintaining good contrast with lighter text.
Applications
Web Design
Congress Blue can be used to create a professional and trustworthy aesthetic. Its dark, muted tone makes it suitable for backgrounds, headers, and accents. When pairing it with lighter text and complementary colors, it enhances readability and visual appeal, creating a balanced and user-friendly website.
Fashion Design
In the fashion world, Congress Blue can be used for sophisticated and elegant designs. It can be applied to dresses, suits, and accessories, offering a touch of refinement. Pairing it with neutral colors like gray or beige creates a classic and timeless look, while using it with bolder colors like gold or red adds a touch of boldness.
Interior Design
Congress Blue can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be applied to walls, furniture, and decorative items, offering a touch of elegance. Complementing it with natural materials like wood or stone creates a balanced and harmonious space. Accenting with metallic details adds a touch of luxury.