Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #0A3F8E, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated blue hue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. It is often associated with professionalism, intelligence, and classic style. In the RGB color model, #0A3F8E is composed of 3.92% red, 24.71% green, and 55.69% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 93% cyan, 56% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. This color is widely used in various applications, from web design and branding to fashion and interior decoration, to convey a sense of reliability and sophistication. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for creating a professional and trustworthy image. Congress Blue finds use across diverse fields, from crafting digital interfaces to designing corporate identities. It is also a color that blends well with other colors allowing for multiple applications.
The hex color #0A3F8E, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low lightness value means that text rendered in this color may lack sufficient contrast against a white or light-colored background, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #0A3F8E, it is advisable to use a lighter color for the text or background to ensure that the content is accessible to everyone. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Additionally, providing alternative text for images and ensuring proper semantic structure can further enhance the accessibility of content using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5984
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #4682b4
A brighter blue alternative that offers improved visibility and accessibility, especially for users with visual impairments.
- #ffffff
As a neutral color, #FFFFFF can be used as a complementary background color to contrast well with Congress Blue.
Applications
Web Design
Congress Blue can be used in website headers and footers to create a professional and trustworthy impression. Its deep blue tone conveys stability and authority, making it suitable for corporate websites and financial institutions. The color can be paired with lighter accents to provide contrast and visual interest, ensuring a balanced and engaging user experience. Furthermore, it can be used for buttons and calls to action, guiding users through the site and highlighting important elements. The color can also be used for interactive elements to signal to the users when a particular element is active or ready for use.
Branding
This color is well-suited for branding materials, such as logos, business cards, and letterheads, especially for businesses that want to project an image of reliability and sophistication. The depth of Congress Blue makes it memorable and helps a company stand out. Congress Blue can be used in various branding elements to promote brand recognisition. In logo design, Congress Blue can act as the primary color to make the logo more memorable.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative elements. It works well in studies, libraries, or bedrooms to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. The color can be paired with neutral tones, such as beige or gray, to create a balanced and inviting space. Furthermore, it can be complemented with natural wood finishes and soft lighting to enhance the overall ambiance of the room. The hue also is a great color to complement a nautical or coastal style.