Congress Blue
General Information
The color #0C3C8C, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, rich shade of blue with a slight hint of purple. It belongs to the blue color family and evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4.71% red, 23.53% green, and 54.9% blue. Its CMYK values are 78% cyan, 57% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45% black. Congress Blue is often associated with government, education, and corporate environments due to its serious and professional appearance. It can be used to create a sense of reliability and sophistication. This color is less commonly found in nature, contributing to its association with man-made structures and formal settings. Its hexadecimal value makes it easily adaptable for digital use across various platforms.
The hex color #0C3C8C, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against lighter backgrounds like white or very pale yellows. This low contrast can make it difficult for users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness, to read text rendered in this color. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use #0C3C8C with backgrounds that offer sufficient contrast. Ideally, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using a lighter shade of yellow, orange, or cyan as a background color can significantly improve readability. Websites and applications must adhere to WCAG guidelines to provide an inclusive experience for all users, and the proper application of Congress Blue requires careful consideration of contrast ratios.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue can be utilized to create a sense of sophistication and trustworthiness. It's well-suited for header backgrounds, button highlights, and navigational elements, especially in sectors like finance, education, or government. The color evokes feelings of stability and authority, making it a strong choice for brands aiming to project these qualities. However, it's crucial to pair it with appropriate contrasting colors for text and interactive elements to ensure optimal readability and user experience. Proper use can enhance the professional appearance of a website.
Interior Design
In interior design, #0C3C8C can be used to create a calming and elegant atmosphere. This color is particularly effective in spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, or studies where a sense of tranquility is desired. When used as a wall color, it's best complemented with lighter-colored furniture and decor to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Accents of gold or brass can add a touch of luxury. Textiles and upholstery in complementary or analogous colors can further enhance the visual appeal, creating a harmonious and inviting space.
Fashion
Congress Blue is a versatile color in fashion, often used to convey a sense of professionalism and classic style. It's a popular choice for business attire such as suits, blazers, and dresses, as it projects confidence and competence. This color also works well in casual wear, like sweaters, shirts, and accessories. Combining Congress Blue with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige creates a sophisticated and balanced look. Adding pops of contrasting colors like coral or mustard can inject vibrancy and personality into an outfit.