Congress Blue
General Information
The hex color #084793, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark, saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, authority, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.14% red, 27.84% green, and 57.65% blue. This color is often associated with governmental institutions and formal environments, hence its name. In terms of color theory, Congress Blue is considered a cool color, lending itself well to designs that aim to create a sense of calmness or professionalism. Its hexadecimal representation makes it easily usable in digital applications, while its physical manifestation can be achieved through careful mixing of pigments or dyes. The color is also suitable for creating depth and contrast in visual designs.
The hex color #084793, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text and user interface components. Using #084793 on a white background, for example, may not meet these requirements. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of complementary colors for backgrounds or employing a text color that provides better contrast. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can help evaluate and adjust color combinations to meet accessibility standards, making content more usable for individuals with visual impairments. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information, and always provide alternative cues such as text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for text and user interface elements.
- #002663
A darker shade of blue that can be used for backgrounds or accents, providing a strong visual contrast against lighter text colors.
- #808080
A neutral grey that can be combined with #084793 to create a balanced and professional look, while also ensuring readability.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue can be employed to create a sense of trust and authority, making it suitable for websites of financial institutions, government agencies, or educational organizations. It can be used for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons to draw attention and guide users through the site. To ensure optimal user experience, combine it with accessible color palettes and clear typography.
Interior Design
In interior design, this deep blue can serve as an accent color to bring sophistication to a room. Think of it as a color for an accent wall, decorative pillows, or artwork. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, creating a balanced and calming environment. It's particularly effective in studies, living rooms, or bedrooms where a sense of tranquility is desired. Because of the dark shade, it should be complemented with lighter elements to provide enough light in the room.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Congress Blue can be used for formal wear, business attire, or even casual wear to convey a sense of elegance and professionalism. It works well for suits, dresses, and accessories. It can be combined with lighter colors like white or pastels for a fresh and modern look, or with darker colors like black or gray for a more classic and sophisticated style. A silk scarf, a cashmere sweater, or a well-tailored blazer in this color can easily elevate an outfit.