Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0D468E, is a deep, muted shade of blue often associated with professionalism, stability, and trustworthiness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 5.1% red, 27.5% green, and 55.7% blue. Its CMYK values are 89.3% cyan, 50.7% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44.3% black. This color is frequently used in corporate branding, government institutions, and educational materials to convey a sense of authority and reliability. Its relatively low brightness makes it suitable for backgrounds or accent elements, particularly when paired with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and visual clarity. Congress Blue evokes a sense of calm and competence, making it a popular choice for conveying important information or establishing a strong brand identity.
The color #0D468E, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low lightness value (approximately 0.17) means it requires careful consideration when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, it fails to meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 against white (#FFFFFF), making it unsuitable for body text. However, it can pass for larger text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) or UI components. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of blue or pairing it with a very light color like #FFFFFF, #F0F0F0, or #E5E5E5. Ensure sufficient contrast for users with visual impairments. Providing alternative text and visual cues for interactive elements is also crucial.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3b73af
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility for a wider range of users.
- #d3d3d3
A neutral gray that complements Congress Blue and offers a high contrast option for text and UI elements, ensuring accessibility and visual clarity.
- #2e9af3
A brighter, more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements without sacrificing readability.
Applications
Website Headers and Navigation Bars
Congress Blue is a sophisticated color choice for website headers and navigation bars. Its deep hue conveys trustworthiness and stability, making it suitable for corporate websites and professional portfolios. When used with a contrasting color for text and interactive elements, it enhances the overall user experience by providing a clear and intuitive interface. Employing this color in conjunction with a clean layout can create a website that is both visually appealing and functionally effective, reinforcing the brand's identity and message.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Congress Blue can be utilized to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in living rooms and bedrooms. It works particularly well as an accent color on walls, furniture, or decorative pieces. Pairing it with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white can balance the richness of the blue, creating a harmonious and inviting space. Consider using it in combination with natural materials like wood and stone to add warmth and texture to the room.
Fashion Apparel and Accessories
In fashion, Congress Blue offers a versatile option for both formal and casual wear. It can be used in suits, dresses, or outerwear to create a polished and professional look. Additionally, it can be incorporated into accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to any outfit. Its ability to complement a wide range of skin tones makes it a flattering choice for various individuals, enhancing their personal style and confidence.