Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hexadecimal color #0C4D8F, also referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. It is commonly associated with professional environments, government institutions, and corporate branding. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4.71% red, 30.2% green, and 56.08% blue. Its CMYK representation is 92% cyan, 46% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. This color is frequently used in contexts where reliability and composure are desired, making it a popular choice for logos, websites, and marketing materials aiming to project a sense of professionalism and dependability. Its versatility allows it to be paired with various lighter shades and contrasting hues to create visually appealing and balanced designs.
The color #0C4D8F, also known as Congress Blue, has a relatively low luminance, which impacts its accessibility. When used as text, it requires a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using tools to evaluate the contrast ratio between the text color and the background color is essential. If the contrast is insufficient, consider using a lighter tint of Congress Blue or a different, more contrasting color altogether for the background or the text. Adequate contrast ensures readability for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Also, avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information; supplement color with text or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2E64FE
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a professional look while improving contrast against white backgrounds.
- #808080
A neutral gray can be used for backgrounds or text when Congress Blue is too strong or contrast is a concern.
- #191970
Midnight Blue provides a similar dark blue aesthetic but can offer better contrast in certain contexts.
Applications
Professional Website Design
Congress Blue, with its authoritative and calm presence, is an excellent choice for designing professional websites, particularly those related to finance, law, or government. It can be used for headers, navigation bars, and key call-to-action buttons to instill trust and credibility. When incorporating it, consider pairing it with lighter, complementary colors to ensure readability and visual balance, thereby creating a user-friendly experience that aligns with the website's objectives.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Congress Blue can be applied to create a sophisticated and serene atmosphere in living spaces or offices. It works well as an accent wall color, complementing neutral furniture and décor. Consider using it in rooms where focus and calmness are desired, such as studies or bedrooms. The color can be paired with warm neutrals like beige or light gray to add warmth and balance the coolness of the blue, resulting in an inviting and productive environment.
Classic Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Congress Blue is often used to create classic and timeless looks. It's a versatile color that works well in both formal and casual wear. For formal occasions, it can be used in suits or dresses. For casual wear, it can be incorporated into jeans, sweaters, or jackets. The color pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, or black, and can also be accented with pops of brighter colors like red or yellow to create a more eye-catching look.