Congress Blue
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #103A88 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Congress Blue. It is composed of 6.27% red, 22.75% green, and 53.33% blue. In the RGB color space, it has the values (16, 58, 136). Congress Blue typically conveys feelings of trust, authority, and stability. In color psychology, dark blues are often associated with intelligence and seriousness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional environments. The color's relatively low saturation gives it a calm and reserved appearance, suitable for creating a sense of confidence and reliability. Its versatility allows it to be used in diverse applications ranging from web design to interior decoration.
The hex color #103A88, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations, especially in web design. Its relatively low luminance can pose challenges when used as a background color with light text. Ensuring sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for readability, particularly for users with visual impairments. WCAG guidelines recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools is highly advisable. When using #103A88 for interactive elements like buttons or links, providing clear visual cues for hover and focus states is essential to ensure usability for all users. The color's darkness may necessitate careful selection of complementary colors to maintain a balanced and accessible design. Utilizing color alone to convey information should be avoided; supplementary cues like text labels or icons should be incorporated to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar tone but offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #5f9ea0
A slightly desaturated blue that provides a softer feel while still retaining the essence of Congress Blue.
- #0077cc
A bolder blue with increased brightness, to create a stronger visual impact and improve contrast with lighter texts.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue can be used to establish a sense of trust and authority. It is suitable for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons, where its calm and reliable presence can encourage user engagement. Careful consideration is needed to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements, to meet accessibility standards and improve user experience. When combined with lighter accents or neutral shades, it can create a professional and approachable look for corporate websites or educational platforms. This creates a visually appealing design that reinforces the brand's message.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue works well as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms. It can be used on throw pillows, rugs, or artwork to add a touch of sophistication and tranquility to a space. When paired with neutral walls and warm wood tones, it creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere. This deep blue can also be applied to walls or furniture in a home office, promoting concentration and reducing visual clutter. It should be complemented by adequate lighting to avoid the room feeling too dark.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be used in both casual and formal wear. It works well in dresses, suits, and outerwear. Pairing Congress Blue with neutral colors like beige or gray creates a classic and elegant look, while combining it with brighter colors like yellow or red adds a pop of visual interest. This color is suitable for creating a sophisticated look and can be styled to express different levels of personality.