Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #0A3E91, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated blue hue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. It is often associated with governmental institutions, academic settings, and corporate environments where a sense of reliability is crucial. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.92% red, 24.31% green, and 56.86% blue. Congress Blue is perceived as a cool color, making it suitable for creating calming and professional visual experiences. Its hex code #0A3E91 can be used in web design and digital art to convey seriousness and sophistication. The color is named after its association with the United States Congress, symbolizing integrity and steadfastness.
The hex color #0A3E91, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Due to its dark nature, it necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. To ensure readability, it's crucial to pair this color with light backgrounds. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text, as outlined by WCAG guidelines. For large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular), a contrast ratio of 3:1 is acceptable. When using this color for links or buttons, provide sufficient visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or borders, to aid users with color vision deficiencies. Adequate spacing around interactive elements is also vital to improve usability for users with motor impairments. Proper implementation ensures an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that stands out and can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a webpage.
- #ffffff
A neutral color that pairs well with many colors and provide good constrast for text.
Applications
Website Navigation Bar
Congress Blue can be utilized as a primary color for a website's navigation bar, conveying a sense of trust and stability. The dark blue hue is well-suited for backgrounds, contrasting effectively with light-colored text and icons. This color is especially relevant for governmental or educational websites where credibility is essential. Buttons and call-to-action elements can also benefit from this color, creating a professional and authoritative impression. To further enhance visual appeal, consider using Congress Blue in conjunction with complementary colors to create a balanced design.
Interior Accent Wall
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere in a living room or bedroom. This deep blue hue works well as an accent wall color, adding depth and visual interest to the space. Pair it with lighter neutrals, such as beige or gray, to achieve a balanced look. Furniture in lighter wood tones or metallic accents like gold or silver can complement the color. Fabrics such as velvet or linen in lighter shades of blue can also be used to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Formal Wear
Congress Blue is a popular choice for formal wear, such as suits and dresses, providing a sophisticated and professional look. The color is often associated with power and trust, making it suitable for business meetings and formal events. It pairs well with white or light-colored shirts and blouses, as well as silver or gold accessories. For a more casual look, Congress Blue can be combined with denim or other lighter fabrics.