Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #0F4D8B, also known as Congress Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 5.88% red, 30.2% green, and 54.51% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 89.28% cyan, 44.5% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45.49% black. This color is often associated with professionalism, authority, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding, government websites, and educational materials. Its relatively low saturation gives it a sophisticated and understated appearance, distinguishing it from brighter and more energetic blues. Because of its properties, it is often used for conservative designs.
The color #0F4D8B, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background. With a relatively low contrast ratio, it may be difficult for users with visual impairments to read. 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 #0F4D8B for body text on a white background might not meet these standards. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a darker background. Alternatively, you can increase the font size and weight to enhance readability. Tools like contrast checkers can help assess and adjust color combinations for optimal accessibility. Ensure that important visual information is not solely conveyed through color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682B4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability for users with visual impairments.
- #003366
A darker shade of blue that ensures sufficient contrast when used with lighter text, enhancing accessibility.
- #1E90FF
A more vibrant alternative that can draw attention while still maintaining a professional aesthetic.
Applications
Web Design
Congress Blue provides a calm and reliable feel in website design, perfect for businesses that value trust. It is suitable for backgrounds, headers, and buttons. To ensure your website is both beautiful and usable, use Congress Blue with white or lighter text for maximum legibility. This helps maintain the website's aesthetic appeal while ensuring users can easily read the content. Congress Blue is commonly used by governments, financial institutions and educational websites.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to balance its intensity. Accents of warm colors like gold or mustard can add a touch of sophistication. For example, painting a room in Congress Blue can make the space feel calm and tranquil, improving concentration and relaxation.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue can be used to create sophisticated and elegant outfits. It can be used in casual and professional wear. It works well with neutral colors like white, black, and gray, but also pairs well with other colors like yellow and red for a sophisticated look. For instance, a Congress Blue dress paired with gold accessories creates a classic and refined style. A business suit in this shade projects confidence and professionalism.