Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hexadecimal color code #0B408D represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Congress Blue. It is composed of 4.31% red, 25.1% green, and 55.3% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 11 red, 64 green, and 141 blue. In the CMYK color model, which is often used in printing, it is composed of 92% cyan, 55% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45% black. This particular shade of blue conveys a sense of trust, authority, and stability. It is often associated with governmental institutions and formal settings. Colors close to it are navy and royal blue. It is not commonly found in nature.
The color #0B408D, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background. Its low lightness value (around 15%) means that it lacks sufficient contrast. 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. Congress Blue typically falls short of these ratios on light backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider using Congress Blue with lighter shades for the background color, or use it as a background with white or very light-colored text. Alternatively, you can use color contrast tools to find accessible color combinations. Utilizing Congress Blue for graphical elements such as icons or large shapes may pose fewer accessibility concerns since the contrast requirements are less stringent.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2E86C1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #3468C0
A slightly desaturated blue that reduces the intensity and improves accessibility when used as text.
- #808080
A neutral gray for backgrounds that provides a safer contrast to other colors.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Congress Blue can be used in website headers and footers to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its deep hue communicates stability and reliability, making it suitable for corporate websites, financial institutions, and government agencies. It also works well for highlighting calls to action when paired with complementary colors like yellow or orange. In user interface design, it could be used for primary buttons and navigation menus to guide the user experience effectively. The key is to ensure sufficient contrast with text and background elements to maintain accessibility and readability.
Fashion and Apparel
This color would be perfect for formal events, as it would evoke a sense of royalty and elegance. Furthermore, using this color in fashion can be used for power dressing. To stand out in the crowd, you may pair with a brighter color to give the 'pop' effect.
Interior Design and Decoration
Congress Blue, with its association to royalty and stability, can be effectively used in interior design for creating a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well in living rooms or bedrooms when paired with neutral tones like beige or gray. The color can be used on accent walls to add depth to a room, or in upholstery for sofas and armchairs to create a focal point. It is not a recommended color for kitchen as it can suppress apetite.