Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The color #0C448F, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue often associated with authority, trust, and stability. It falls within the blue color family, known for its calming and reliable qualities. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4.71% red, 26.67% green, and 56.08% blue. The CMYK representation is 79% cyan, 52% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. In the HSL color space, it has a hue of 214 degrees, a saturation of 84%, and a lightness of 30%. This color is frequently used in branding and design to convey a sense of professionalism and competence. Its hexadecimal value, #0C448F, makes it easy to incorporate into digital projects. Historically, darker blues like this have been linked to governmental and academic institutions, reinforcing its connotations of knowledge and dependability.
The hex color #0C448F, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web development. Its dark hue results in a relatively low luminance value, which means that using it as a background color requires careful attention to text color choices. To ensure readability and compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG, it's crucial to use a light-colored text, such as white or a very pale yellow. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole means of conveying important information, as users with color vision deficiencies may struggle to perceive it. Providing alternative visual cues, like icons or text labels, ensures inclusivity. When used for links, ensure sufficient contrast between the link color, the surrounding text, and the background to make them easily distinguishable.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2E64FE
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a professional look while providing better contrast against dark text.
- #1E90FF
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
- #343a40
A dark desaturated blue tone, which is a good neutral alternative if less saturated colours are desired.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue (#0C448F) is often used to create a sense of trust and authority. It is suitable for header backgrounds, navigation menus, and call-to-action buttons on websites for financial institutions, government agencies, or educational organizations. The color evokes professionalism and reliability, making it an excellent choice for brands aiming to project stability and competence. Its dark nature allows for the use of light, contrasting text, enhancing readability and user experience. However, it should be balanced with lighter shades to prevent the design from feeling too heavy or somber.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can serve as an elegant accent color or a grounding base for a room's palette. It pairs well with neutral tones such as gray, beige, or white to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. Consider using it for accent walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories. The color's depth adds richness to a space without being overpowering. It's particularly effective in studies, libraries, or bedrooms where a sense of tranquility and focus is desired. Metallic accents like gold or silver can further enhance its luxurious feel.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue can be used to create a sense of sophistication and professionalism. It is a versatile color that can be worn in both casual and formal settings. Consider using it for suits, dresses, or blouses. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories such as scarves or handbags. The color pairs well with neutral tones such as black, white, or gray. It can also be paired with brighter colors such as yellow or pink for a more playful look.