Congress Blue
About Congress Blue
The hex color #08418A, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep and rich shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0 red, 65 green, and 138 blue. This color is often associated with qualities like trustworthiness, stability, and authority, making it a popular choice for branding and design elements where these attributes are desired. Congress Blue's hex code translates to approximately RGB(8, 65, 138). Its CMYK values are roughly C:94, M:53, Y:0, K:46. The color is often used to evoke feelings of calmness and professionalism, mirroring the traditional symbolism of dark blue in corporate settings. The hue sits firmly within the blue color space, leaning neither towards green nor violet significantly.
The hex color #08418A, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its dark nature means that sufficient contrast is crucial when using it for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Lighter shades of yellows, oranges, or even very pale blues and greens work best to achieve this contrast. Using this color for large graphical elements or as a background color is generally more acceptable, but care must still be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance, especially for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, suitable for text and user interface elements.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can provide a more subtle background color while maintaining good readability.
- #008080
A vibrant teal that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
Applications
Web Design for Corporate Websites
Congress Blue is often used in website headers and footers to establish a sense of trust and authority. Its deep, calming tone creates a professional and reliable atmosphere, making it ideal for businesses in finance, law, and government sectors. It is also used to highlight call-to-action buttons, especially when paired with contrasting colors like yellow or white, guiding users to important interactions on the page. In infographics, Congress Blue can effectively represent data points or categories, ensuring clarity and visual appeal for the viewer.
Interior Design for Modern Homes
In interior design, Congress Blue can serve as an accent wall color to evoke a sense of tranquility and sophistication in living rooms or bedrooms. It pairs well with lighter neutral tones like beige or gray to create a balanced and inviting space. Textiles such as curtains, cushions, or rugs in this color can add a touch of elegance and depth to a room. Additionally, it can be used for cabinetry in kitchens or bathrooms to create a modern and refined look, especially when combined with stainless steel hardware and light-colored countertops.
Fashion Design for Formal and Casual Wear
In the fashion industry, Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be used for both formal and casual wear. It is often seen in suits, dresses, and outerwear, providing a classic and sophisticated look. It can be paired with neutral colors such as black, white, or gray for a timeless appeal, or with bolder colors such as red or yellow for a more contemporary and eye-catching outfit. Accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes in Congress Blue can add a touch of elegance to any ensemble.