Congress Blue
General Information
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0A3C91, is a dark and somewhat muted shade of blue. It evokes feelings of depth, stability, and trustworthiness. In the RGB color model, it consists of 3.92% red, 23.53% green, and 56.86% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is used in printing, its composition is 93% cyan, 59% magenta, 0% yellow, and 43% black. This color is often associated with authority, intelligence, and formality. It finds common use in corporate branding, government websites, and academic institutions. Understanding its color composition allows designers to effectively incorporate it into various projects, ensuring it aligns with the desired mood and message. Its relatively low brightness value of 20% necessitates careful consideration of contrast when used with text or other visual elements.
The hex color #0A3C91, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires careful consideration of the background color 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 to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Using #0A3C91 on a white background may not meet these standards, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read the content. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with a much lighter color, such as a light yellow or off-white, or using it sparingly for decorative elements rather than critical text. Testing with accessibility tools is crucial to verify compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast on white backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that complements Congress Blue well without causing visual strain.
- #add8e6
A softer blue that can be used for backgrounds, allowing Congress Blue to stand out as an accent color.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Congress Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look. Its deep hue evokes feelings of trust and reliability, making it ideal for financial institutions or corporate websites. Using it for headings, buttons, or as an accent color against a neutral background can add a touch of elegance. Consider using it in conjunction with a serif font to enhance the overall sense of authority and stability, while avoiding overuse to prevent a somber or overwhelming appearance.
Web Development
In web development, Congress Blue can be applied to navigation bars, call-to-action buttons, and other interactive elements to draw the user's eye. Its rich color provides a visually appealing contrast against lighter backgrounds, enhancing the user experience. When used strategically, it can improve website navigation and guide users towards key conversion goals. Pair it with complementary colors or gradients to create a more dynamic and engaging interface, while ensuring it remains accessible and easy to read.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can create a calming yet sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or living rooms, providing a sense of tranquility and focus. It can be used as an accent wall color, furniture upholstery, or decorative accents such as pillows and rugs. Pair it with natural materials like wood and stone to create a balanced and inviting space, and complement it with lighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark or enclosed.