Congress Blue
General Information
The color #084290, also known as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue that conveys a sense of trustworthiness, stability, and professionalism. It is commonly associated with government, finance, and education due to its serious and reliable nature. In the RGB color model, #084290 is composed of 3.14% red, 25.88% green, and 56.47% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 94% cyan, 54% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. This deep hue is often used in branding and marketing materials to evoke feelings of confidence and security. Its relative darkness also makes it a good choice for text and other elements requiring high contrast against lighter backgrounds.
The hex color #084290, also known as Congress Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Its dark hue provides a strong contrast when used with light text or interface elements, which is generally good for readability. However, when pairing it with other dark colors, contrast can become insufficient, making content difficult to perceive for users, especially those with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Always check contrast ratios using online tools to ensure compliance. When using #084290 for backgrounds, consider employing lighter foreground colors such as white or light yellows to maximize readability. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of interactive elements; supplement it with text labels or icons to ensure usability for color blind users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue, #1E90FF (DodgerBlue) offers better visibility and can be more easily combined with other colors while maintaining good contrast.
- #4682b4
For situations needing a softer, more subtle blue, #4682B4 (SteelBlue) provides a less intense alternative while still conveying a sense of professionalism and trust.
- #0056b3
This color offers a higher contrast ratio with white, improving readability for users with visual impairments.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue can be used for website headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its deep, rich tone makes it suitable for financial institutions, government agencies, and educational platforms. The color can also be used for highlighting important information or creating visual hierarchy within a webpage. When combined with lighter shades, it can create a balanced and appealing user interface. Furthermore, it can be incorporated into data visualizations to represent key metrics or trends, providing a clear and impactful presentation of information. It is also a great alternative to black for text to add a subtle touch of color.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. It works well with neutral colors like gray, beige, and white to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. The color can be incorporated through furniture, wall paint, or decorative accessories such as cushions and curtains. Its deep hue can add depth and richness to a room, making it feel more inviting and comfortable. Also consider pairing with wood materials for a natural ambiance.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue can be used to create elegant and professional outfits. It is a versatile color that can be worn in various settings, from formal events to casual outings. The color can be incorporated into dresses, suits, and accessories like ties and scarves. It pairs well with other neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as bolder colors like red and yellow. Its deep hue adds a touch of sophistication and confidence to any outfit. Also a great color for business suits.