Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #094D92, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue with strong ties to sophistication, authority, and trust. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.53% red, 29.8% green, and 57.25% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.94, 0.48, 0.00, and 0.43. Originating from the United States, it draws inspiration from the hues associated with governmental bodies and institutions. Its serious tone makes it perfect for designs aiming to convey professionalism, stability, and credibility. It is widely used in corporate branding, particularly for companies in finance, law, and government sectors. Additionally, it can be found in educational materials and websites seeking to evoke trust and reliability. It is a versatile and timeless color choice.
The hex color #094D92, also known as Congress Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its dark hue results in a low luminance value, which means it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability. When used as a background, it's imperative to use light text colors, such as white or very light shades of yellow or grey, to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for color contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. If used for interactive elements like buttons or links, hover and focus states must also maintain sufficient contrast. It's also important to consider users with low vision or color blindness. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to guarantee content is perceivable to all users. Therefore, while Congress Blue can add a touch of sophistication, its use requires a thoughtful approach to accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a professional appearance while offering improved readability and contrast when paired with darker text.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements on a webpage, such as calls to action or important notifications.
- #a7bdd5
A muted gray-blue that works well as a background color, providing a subtle yet sophisticated backdrop for content.
Applications
Financial Branding
Congress Blue evokes feelings of trust, authority, and stability, making it well-suited for financial institutions and government agencies. It can be applied to website designs, branding materials, and even mobile applications. The color's inherent seriousness can be softened through the use of complementary colors and modern design elements, like rounded corners and generous white space. It's also perfect for creating data visualizations and infographics that require a professional and credible look. Used in print media, such as reports and brochures, it can enhance the perception of reliability and expertise.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Congress Blue can be employed to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere, especially in rooms dedicated to work or relaxation. It pairs well with both warm and cool neutrals, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. Consider using it as an accent color on walls, furniture, or textiles. It will bring a sense of depth and serenity to the space. In corporate settings, it can reinforce the brand's identity and create a professional work environment for employees, promoting productivity and focus.
Fashion and Apparel
Congress Blue can add a touch of understated elegance to formal wear and professional attire. It is a versatile alternative to black or navy, offering a sophisticated and authoritative look without being overly flashy. The color works well for suits, dresses, and accessories, especially when paired with neutral tones or metallic accents. It makes a great choice for business meetings, conferences, and other formal occasions where a polished and confident appearance is desired. Incorporating the color into your wardrobe conveys a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness, reinforcing a positive image.