Congress Blue
About Congress Blue (#0E378A)
The hexadecimal color code #0E378A, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep shade of blue often associated with sophistication, trust, and authority. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 5.49% red, 21.57% green, and 54.12% blue. Its CMYK values are 0.90, 0.60, 0.00, 0.46, which indicates that it is created by combining a high percentage of cyan and magenta with a lower percentage of yellow, and a significant amount of black. This color is frequently used in corporate branding and governmental contexts to project an image of stability and professionalism. Its depth and richness make it a versatile choice for both backgrounds and accent elements in various design applications.
The color #0E378A, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against lighter backgrounds, which can be problematic for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for readability. For body text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while for larger text and user interface components, a ratio of 3:1 is generally acceptable. When using #0E378A for text, it is essential to pair it with a very light color, such as white or a pale yellow, to ensure that the text is easily readable. Similarly, if #0E378A is used as a background color, light-colored text or UI elements should be used on top of it to enhance visibility and usability. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify that color combinations meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1f497d
A slightly lighter blue that maintains a similar feel but offers improved contrast against white backgrounds.
- #2e5aa0
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements while still harmonizing with a darker palette.
- #336699
A lighter shade of blue, suitable for backgrounds or less important design elements, as it will ensure better contrast with darker elements.
Applications
Banking Website Design
Congress Blue evokes feelings of trust and stability. It can be employed as the primary color in the navigation bar of a banking or financial website to inspire confidence in users. Furthermore, utilizing this hue for button elements, paired with light-colored text, creates a balanced and user-friendly design. It may also be used for charts and diagrams to present financial data clearly and professionally, creating a consistent branding across all the pages.
Fashion Design
In fashion design, Congress Blue can be used for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, to convey a sense of sophistication and authority. It can also be incorporated as an accent color in casual wear, such as scarves or handbags, to add a touch of elegance. Pairing it with neutral colors like gray or beige creates a timeless and versatile look, whereas gold or silver accessories enhance its luxurious appeal. This makes it suitable for various style expressions and purposes.
Interior Design
Congress Blue can be used as an accent wall color in a home office to create a calm and focused atmosphere. Complementary colors like beige or light gray can be used for the other walls and furniture to balance the space. In a living room, Congress Blue cushions and throws can add a touch of sophistication without being overwhelming. Using it sparingly as a background color in artwork or decorative pieces may also bring a sense of depth and elegance to the overall aesthetic of the room.