Congress Blue
General Information
The hex color #074A8B, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of trustworthiness, stability, and professionalism. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with tranquility, confidence, and authority. This color is commonly used in corporate branding, government institutions, and educational settings to convey a sense of reliability and expertise. In color psychology, blue is known to promote calmness and focus, making it a popular choice for environments where concentration and clear thinking are essential. Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be paired with a variety of other colors to create different moods and effects, ranging from classic and understated to modern and dynamic.
The color #074A8B, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background. Its relatively low luminance results in a contrast ratio that may not meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text. This means that users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness, may find it difficult to read. To improve accessibility, consider using #074A8B for larger text elements, graphical elements, or as a background color paired with a very light text color like white (#FFFFFF) or a very high contrast color. Ensure that all interactive elements using this color meet the minimum contrast ratios specified in WCAG to provide an inclusive user experience. Testing with accessibility tools is crucial to confirm compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A slightly lighter blue, this alternative provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #003366
A darker shade of blue that can be used to create a stronger visual hierarchy when Congress Blue is used as a primary color.
- #ADD8E6
This shade of blue provides a lighter tone that is commonly used for backgrounds in web design.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Congress Blue can serve as an accent color for buttons, headers, or navigation bars. Its professional and calming tone makes it suitable for websites in the education, finance, or government sectors. It can be paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to create a clean and trustworthy look. Also consider using it for data visualization to represent important metrics or trends.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, Congress Blue can be utilized in formal wear, such as suits, dresses, or blazers, offering a sophisticated and authoritative appearance. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, black, or white, as well as complementary colors like gold or yellow for a touch of elegance. This color can also be used in accessories like ties, scarves, or handbags to add a pop of color to an outfit.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used as a wall color, accent furniture, or decorative piece to create a calming and professional atmosphere. It is often found in offices, libraries, or studies, where a sense of stability and order is desired. Pair it with natural materials like wood or stone to enhance the sense of serenity and tranquility within the space.