Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue (#0E3A8F)
The hex color #0E3A8F, also known as Congress Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of professionalism, trustworthiness, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 5.5% red, 22.7% green, and 56.1% blue. In the CMYK color model, used in printing, it consists of 90% cyan, 59% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. This color is frequently associated with corporate branding, government institutions, and financial services due to its serious and dependable nature. Its depth and richness make it a versatile choice for various design applications, lending a sense of authority and sophistication. Understanding its color composition and associations is crucial for designers aiming to create impactful and meaningful visual communications.
The hex color #0E3A8F, also known as Congress Blue, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using this color with dark text can result in a contrast ratio that falls far below these recommendations, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read the content. It's crucial to test color combinations using online contrast checkers to ensure compliance. Furthermore, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided; supplementary cues such as text labels or icons should be provided for users who may not be able to distinguish the color effectively. Consider offering alternative color schemes that provide better contrast to enhance the overall user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark text, improving readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that works well as a background color with both light and dark text, offering good accessibility.
- #205072
A slightly desaturated blue that is easier on the eyes while retaining a sense of depth
Applications
Financial Dashboards and Reports
Congress Blue (#0E3A8F) can serve as a sophisticated background for financial dashboards or reports, conveying trust and stability. It can be used for charts, graphs, and data visualizations, ensuring clarity and professionalism. Incorporating it into the user interface of banking applications or investment platforms can enhance the overall user experience by providing a sense of security and reliability. The deep blue hue creates a calming atmosphere, which is particularly useful when presenting complex financial information. It can also be used in infographics to highlight key data points and trends, making the information more accessible and engaging.
Website Headers and Footers
In web development, Congress Blue can be used to create visually appealing and professional website headers and footers. The color evokes feelings of trustworthiness and stability, making it a suitable choice for businesses or organizations aiming to build credibility online. It can be incorporated into button designs or call-to-action elements to draw attention and encourage user interaction. When used sparingly, Congress Blue can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a website's overall design. The color is also effective for creating depth and dimension in website layouts, making it a versatile option for various design styles.
Interior Design: Accent Walls and Furniture
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in living rooms or bedrooms. It can be paired with neutral colors such as white or gray to create a balanced and harmonious space. Consider using it as an accent wall color to add depth and dimension to a room. Congress Blue can also be incorporated into furniture upholstery or decorative accessories, such as throw pillows or curtains, to create a cohesive design scheme. The color is particularly well-suited for creating a nautical or coastal-inspired interior.