Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0A4084, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of professionalism, authority, and stability. In the RGB color model, it consists of 3.92% red, 25.1% green, and 51.76% blue. This color is often associated with corporate branding, government institutions, and financial sectors. Its muted tone makes it suitable for creating a sense of trust and reliability. The color's depth and richness are visually appealing, making it a popular choice for designs that require a serious and trustworthy impression. This dark blue can serve as an anchoring point in color palettes.
The hex color #0A4084, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges due to its relatively low luminance. When used as a background color, it requires careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of yellow or green would be suitable foreground colors to provide adequate contrast. Designers should use contrast checking tools to verify compliance. For users with visual impairments, including color blindness, relying solely on color to convey information is not advisable. Providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, is essential for inclusivity. Also, consider that very dark blues may cause readability issues for users with dyslexia.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that improves readability and contrast, offering a similar aesthetic with better accessibility.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color in combination with Congress Blue elements to provide better overall contrast and balance.
- #2e5984
A slightly desaturated blue that maintains a professional look while being more accessible.
Applications
Financial Web Design
Congress Blue (#0A4084) can be used to establish a sense of trust and authority in financial websites or applications. Its deep hue conveys stability and reliability, making it suitable for headers, footers, and call-to-action buttons. When paired with a light accent color, it can create a professional and user-friendly interface. Ensuring sufficient contrast with text elements is crucial for readability. It's also excellent for charts representing financial data, with lighter blues as supporting colors for highlighting specific data points.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion industry, Congress Blue offers a sophisticated and versatile option for garments and accessories. It can be used as a primary color for suits, dresses, or outerwear, exuding elegance and professionalism. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white, as well as contrasting colors like gold or coral. Consider using it for corporate uniforms, lending a sense of professionalism and brand identity. For accessories, it can be a great choice for bags, scarves, or ties.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can bring a sense of tranquility and sophistication to living spaces. It is particularly suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or studies. This deep blue works well as an accent wall color, cabinetry finish, or upholstery choice. Pair it with warm neutrals like cream or beige to balance the coolness of the blue and create a comfortable ambiance. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can enhance the elegance of the space.