Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hexadecimal color code #0C468F represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Congress Blue. It's composed of 4.71% red, 27.45% green, and 56.08% blue. In the RGB color model, it is created by mixing relatively low amounts of red and green with a significantly higher amount of blue. This explains the dominance of the blue hue. The color is often associated with feelings of trust, authority, and stability, making it a popular choice for branding in governmental and financial sectors. It also carries a sense of depth and sophistication, lending itself well to designs aiming for a classic or elegant aesthetic. The color is relatively dark with its lightness value of 15%.
The color #0C468F, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its relatively low lightness value (approximately 15%) means it offers limited contrast against darker backgrounds, making it difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When pairing Congress Blue with black or very dark gray backgrounds, it likely falls short of these recommendations. Therefore, it's crucial to use it judiciously, particularly for text. Consider using it for decorative elements or larger graphical components where readability is less critical. When using it for text, pair it with very light colors like white or light yellow to ensure sufficient contrast for optimal readability and accessibility. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify compliance with WCAG standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2E5984
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1E3A8A
A more saturated blue that can draw more attention and improve visibility.
- #008B8B
A dark shade of cyan, providing a balanced alternative that stands out without being overly bright.
Applications
Web Design for Institutions
Congress Blue can be effectively used as a primary color in website designs for financial institutions or governmental organizations to convey trustworthiness and stability. It works well for backgrounds, headers, and accents, providing a professional and reliable feel. When incorporated judiciously with sufficient white space, it allows the website to remain accessible and visually balanced. For example, the color can be used in graphs and charts to make data more easily readable.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Congress Blue can be used for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, to convey sophistication and elegance. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, white, or beige. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags. Its depth makes it a suitable alternative to black, providing richness and character. Congress Blue will give clothes a look that makes them seem like a vintage style from the early 20th century.
Interior Design
Congress Blue can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in interior design. For example, it can be used as an accent wall color in a bedroom or living room. It also works well for upholstery and accessories, such as curtains and cushions. Combine with muted colors, such as taupe, cream or light blue to create a balanced and harmonious look. When combined with wood, the color will create a very authentic and sophisticated look.