Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #0F4B8B, commonly referred to as Congress Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. It falls within the blue color family and has a relatively low luminance value. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 15 red, 75 green, and 139 blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of approximately 89% cyan, 46% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45% black. This color is often associated with institutions, government, and corporate settings due to its serious and dependable nature. In color psychology, blue is often linked to calmness, intelligence, and efficiency, making #0F4B8B a popular choice for branding and design elements where these qualities are desired.
The hex color #0f4b8b, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its relatively low luminance can cause issues with text legibility, especially when used as a background color with light text. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #0f4b8b, it is important to carefully select foreground colors that provide adequate contrast. White or very light shades of yellow or green may work, but it's always best to test the color combination with accessibility evaluation tools. Additionally, avoid using this color for crucial visual elements like buttons or links without proper contrast, as this can hinder usability for a wide range of users, including those with color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue can be used as a primary color for headers and navigation bars to evoke a sense of trust and stability. When used sparingly, it can create a professional and reliable feel. However, it's important to use it strategically, pairing it with lighter or contrasting colors to maintain readability and visual interest. It can also be used for subtle background accents or borders to add depth without overwhelming the user experience. Because of its nature, it is not suitable for use in calls to action.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue works well as an accent color in rooms intended for focus and concentration, such as offices or studies. It can be used on walls, furniture, or decorative elements to create a calming and productive atmosphere. Pairing it with neutral colors like gray or beige can balance its intensity, while adding pops of brighter colors like yellow or orange can create visual interest. It might be perfect for painting a focal wall.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue can be used for formal and professional attire, such as suits or dresses. It conveys a sense of sophistication and confidence, making it suitable for business meetings or special events. It can be paired with neutral accessories like black or white to create a classic and timeless look, or with brighter colors like red or yellow for a bolder and more modern style. Because of its saturation it can also be a great color for handbags, scarfs or even shoes.