Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #0b3d8d, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4.31% red, 23.92% green, and 55.29% blue. Its CMYK values are 92.13% cyan, 56.6% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44.71% black. Congress Blue is often associated with governmental and institutional settings, lending a sense of formality and professionalism. This color's hexadecimal representation makes it easily adaptable for digital use, ensuring consistency across various platforms and devices. Its depth and richness make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from corporate branding to web design, where it can convey reliability and sophistication. Due to its relatively low brightness, it is best used with lighter colors to ensure legibility and visual clarity.
The hex color #0b3d8d, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires light-colored text to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text, as per WCAG guidelines. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify compliance. Given its dark nature, pairing #0b3d8d with whites, light yellows, or other very light shades is advisable. Avoid using it with darker colors or mid-tones, as this can make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Careful consideration of text size and font weight can also help improve readability. For interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast for hover, focus, and active states to provide a clear visual cue for users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3b71ca
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against dark text.
- #0056b3
A more saturated blue that can be used to create a bolder look while maintaining readability when paired with white.
- #2e5266
A neutral dark blue that provides a sophisticated and professional appearance and is slightly lighter than the original color.
Applications
Website Headers and Navigation
Congress Blue is a versatile color choice for website headers and navigation bars. Its deep hue conveys trust and stability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, law, or government sectors. When paired with a clean, minimalist design and ample white space, #0b3d8d can create a professional and user-friendly browsing experience. Consider using it as a primary color for calls to action, drawing attention to important links or buttons. By implementing it strategically, it can enhance the overall aesthetic and improve user engagement, ensuring a seamless interaction with the website.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used as an accent color to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices, providing a touch of elegance and depth. Consider using it for throw pillows, curtains, or accent walls to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. Paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige, #0b3d8d can create a balanced and harmonious environment. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can further enhance its richness and create a luxurious feel.
Fashion Apparel
In the fashion industry, Congress Blue is a staple color for creating classic and sophisticated looks. It is often used in formal wear, business attire, and outerwear, offering a timeless appeal. This color can be used for suits, dresses, and coats, providing a sense of authority and refinement. #0b3d8d pairs well with neutral colors like white, black, and gray, as well as warmer tones like gold and burgundy. In accessories, it can be used in ties, scarves, and handbags to add a touch of elegance to any outfit. It's versatility allows it to be dressed up or down, making it a valuable addition to any wardrobe.