Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hexadecimal color code #0C488F, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It is composed of 4.71% red, 28.24% green, and 56.08% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (12, 72, 143). The corresponding CMYK color code is (92, 49, 0, 44), indicating the percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks required to produce this color in print. Congress Blue is often associated with qualities such as trustworthiness, stability, and authority. Its depth and richness make it a popular choice for branding, corporate design, and various visual communications where a sense of reliability and professionalism is desired. This color evokes feelings of calmness, security, and confidence, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications.
The hex color #0c488f, also known as Congress Blue, presents certain accessibility considerations. Its relatively dark hue means it requires careful attention to contrast when used with text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between foreground and background colors is essential for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #0c488f as a background, lighter text colors like white or light grays are generally necessary to meet these guidelines. Tools are readily available to check the contrast ratio between two colors. Also, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, alongside color to convey information effectively. Ensuring proper accessibility not only benefits users with disabilities but also improves the overall user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5984
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides a more subtle feel while retaining a sense of sophistication and trustworthiness.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant and energetic blue, ideal for highlighting key elements and calls to action.
- #4682b4
A muted, desaturated blue that offers a calming and understated aesthetic.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue lends itself well to creating a professional and trustworthy aesthetic for corporate websites, financial institutions, and government agencies. It can be used for navigation bars, headers, and footers to establish a sense of authority and stability. When combined with lighter accent colors, it can create a balanced and visually appealing interface. Additionally, Congress Blue is effective for data visualization, providing a clear and readable backdrop for charts and graphs. Consider using it sparingly to highlight key data points and trends.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere in living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. It works particularly well as an accent wall color or for upholstery, adding depth and richness to a space. When paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige, it creates a balanced and harmonious palette. Furthermore, Congress Blue can be complemented by metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its elegance and luxury. Its versatility allows it to be incorporated into both modern and traditional design styles.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be used for both formal and casual wear. It is often seen in suits, dresses, and outerwear, conveying a sense of confidence and professionalism. It can be paired with a wide range of colors, including white, black, gray, and even bolder hues like red or yellow. For a more casual look, Congress Blue can be used in denim, sweaters, and t-shirts, offering a stylish and understated aesthetic. Accessories such as scarves, handbags, and shoes in Congress Blue can also add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.