Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hexadecimal color #0F4C8B, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue with a rich and sophisticated character. It is composed of 5.88% red, 29.8% green, and 54.51% blue. In the RGB color space, it resides closer to blue than red or green, giving it its distinctive hue. The color is often associated with trust, stability, and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and governmental institutions. In color psychology, blue is known to evoke feelings of calmness and security, which can be effectively leveraged in design applications. Congress Blue offers a more subdued and refined aesthetic compared to brighter blues, which makes it suitable for designs that aim to project professionalism and reliability. Its relative darkness also means that it pairs well with lighter colors, creating a visually appealing contrast.
The color #0F4C8B, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges due to its relatively low lightness value. When used as text, it may not provide sufficient contrast against a white or light-colored background, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, when using #0F4C8B for text, it is essential to pair it with a very light background to ensure compliance. For interactive elements like buttons or links, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a contrasting color to make them easily distinguishable and operable. Always test color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and provide an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682B4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility.
- #FFFFFF
A neutral color that pairs well with Congress Blue, offering a balanced and visually appealing design.
- #003366
A deeper blue that can be used for backgrounds or accents, providing a richer and more dynamic color palette.
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue can be used for website headers and navigation bars to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its depth evokes a sense of stability and competence, making it suitable for businesses in the finance or technology sectors. Using it sparingly can add sophistication without overwhelming the user.
User Interface Elements
This color is ideal for creating eye-catching call-to-action buttons. When paired with a contrasting color for the text, such as white or yellow, it draws attention and encourages user interaction. It's particularly effective in e-commerce sites to highlight important actions like 'Add to Cart' or 'Checkout'.
Data Visualization
Congress Blue works well in data visualization, such as charts and graphs, to represent important data points. Its calming effect makes it easier for viewers to digest complex information. Use different shades of blue or complementary colors to differentiate data sets and improve clarity.