Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #0c448c, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark, saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of authority, stability, and trust. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4.71% red, 26.67% green, and 54.9% blue. Its CMYK values are 78.6% cyan, 51.5% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45.1% black. This color is frequently used in branding and design projects where conveying a sense of reliability and professionalism is paramount. Congress Blue is often associated with government institutions, financial services, and educational organizations. Its cool, calming tone can also make it suitable for use in healthcare settings. Overall, #0c448c is a versatile color that can add a touch of sophistication and gravitas to a wide range of applications.
The hex color #0c448c, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively dark hue means that careful consideration must be given to its contrast ratio against lighter text or background colors. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. 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). When using #0c448c, ensure that the foreground text is light enough to meet these contrast requirements. White (#ffffff) or very light shades of yellow or green could be suitable choices. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can help verify compliance. Additionally, avoid using #0c448c as the sole means of conveying important information, as colorblind users may struggle to differentiate it from similar dark shades. Supplement color cues with text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter blue that maintains a professional look while offering improved contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #e0e0e0
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to complement Congress Blue, providing a more subtle and accessible design.
- #191970
Midnight blue is a sophisticated and versatile alternative that provides a similar depth of color with slightly better readability in some contexts.
Applications
Financial Institutions
Congress Blue, with its authoritative and trustworthy feel, makes it a great choice for websites and applications in the finance and banking sectors. Its deep, calming tone helps to build confidence with users, and when combined with clean, professional typography, can create a sophisticated and reliable brand image. The color evokes a sense of stability and security, making it ideal for institutions handling sensitive financial data. This hue communicates experience and dependability, assuring clients of the organization's commitment to safeguarding their interests. Its strong presence ensures clarity and focus, contributing to a seamless and user-friendly experience.
Educational Platforms
In the realm of education, Congress Blue instills a sense of trust and intellectual depth. Its serious and focused nature lends itself well to branding materials for universities, online learning platforms, and educational resources. It creates an environment of focused learning and intellectual stimulation. Using Congress Blue in educational settings reinforces the importance of knowledge and growth. The color enhances readability when used in text, promoting clear communication of information. It also helps establish authority and credibility, essential aspects for institutions seeking to attract and retain students.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion industry, Congress Blue exudes sophistication and timeless style. It can be utilized in clothing designs, particularly for formal wear or business attire, offering a sense of power and professionalism. As an accent color, Congress Blue can provide a touch of understated elegance to more casual outfits. In branding and marketing materials, it projects an image of reliability and high quality, aligning with the values of established fashion brands. The color works well across different seasons, offering a versatile option for designers looking to create pieces that are both stylish and enduring.