Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #084593, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue that exudes authority, stability, and trustworthiness. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with calmness, intelligence, and security. In terms of color theory, Congress Blue is a cool color, meaning it tends to recede visually and can create a sense of spaciousness. This color can evoke feelings of formality and professionalism. It is often used in contexts where credibility and reliability are important. Because of the darkness of the color, it should be paired with white or light colors to ensure legibility. The color can be used in a variety of design applications.
The hex color #084593, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Due to its dark hue, it requires very light text (ideally white or a very pale yellow) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #084593, it's crucial to test the contrast ratio with online tools to ensure compliance. Avoid pairing it with other dark colors, as this will make the content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Consider providing alternative color schemes for users who may need them. Also, when using this color for interactive elements, provide clear visual cues beyond color alone to meet WCAG 2.0 AA requirements. Providing other visual indicators will assist color blind users who may not be able to distinguish the color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast for text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #808080
A neutral gray that works well as a background color and offers good contrast with darker text.
- #003366
A darker blue that provides better contrast for text when a light color is used for the background.
Applications
Governmental Website Design
Congress Blue can be used as a primary color for governmental or institutional websites to convey trust and authority. Its deep hue evokes a sense of stability and tradition, making it suitable for headers, navigation bars, and other key design elements. When pairing it with lighter shades or neutral colors, it can create a professional and accessible user experience. It can also be used in infographics to visualize data related to government spending, policy, or demographics. Ensure sufficient contrast with text and other visual elements for optimal readability and usability.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Congress Blue can be used for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, to create a sophisticated and elegant look. Its deep hue is often associated with power and confidence, making it a popular choice for professional settings. It can be paired with neutral colors like gray or beige for a classic combination or with brighter colors like gold or red for a more daring statement. It can also be used for accessories, such as ties or handbags, to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. The color would look very elegant when used for evening gowns. It can also be used in athletic wear as an accent color.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices, especially when paired with lighter colors or natural materials. It can be used for walls, furniture, or decorative accents, such as pillows or curtains. The color conveys a sense of calm and tranquility. It also pairs well with metalic accents such as copper and gold. The color would be ideal as a background for a home theater room.