Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color code #104188, also known as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue. It is composed of 6.27% red, 25.49% green, and 53.33% blue. In the RGB color model, #104188 consists of 4.12% cyan, 52.17% magenta, 0% yellow, and 46.67% black. With a hue angle of 214.6 degrees, a saturation of 77.31%, and a lightness of 29.8%, #104188 presents a visually deep and calming effect. This color is often associated with stability, trust, and professionalism. It is commonly used in corporate branding, government-related websites, and formal designs to convey a sense of authority and reliability. The name Congress Blue further implies a connection to governmental or official contexts, enhancing its perception of trustworthiness and integrity. This dark shade of blue is a versatile color, useful in numerous different designs.
The hex color #104188, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively dark hue means it requires careful pairing with text and background colors to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. When using #104188 for text, it's advisable to use light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or light yellow as a background to provide adequate contrast. Conversely, if #104188 is used as a background, lighter text colors should be selected. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Also, consider users with visual impairments and provide alternative ways to access information conveyed through color. Besides the contrast, the color choices should support the overall usability and readability of the content. It is important to test the color combinations with real users to ensure the design is accessible and visually appealing.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue (#104188) can be used to establish a sense of trust and professionalism. It's a suitable color for header backgrounds, navigation bars, and button accents, especially for websites related to finance, law, or government. Pairing it with neutral colors like white, light gray, or beige can create a clean and sophisticated look. This color could also be used for charts and graphs to represent data in a clear and organized way. However, avoid using it for large blocks of text, as its darkness may reduce readability. For interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast with hover and active states to improve the user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can serve as an accent color to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used on walls, furniture, or decorative elements. Combining it with warm neutrals or natural wood tones can balance its coolness and add warmth to the room. Consider using it in bedrooms or studies to promote relaxation and focus. Ensure that the room has sufficient natural light or warm artificial lighting to prevent the color from making the space feel too dark or somber. As an example, the color could work well on a velvet couch, combined with pillows with golden accents.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue can be a versatile color for creating elegant and professional outfits. It works well for suits, dresses, or accessories. Pairing it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray can create a classic and timeless look. Alternatively, combining it with contrasting colors like mustard yellow or burgundy can add a pop of color and personality. Consider using it for evening wear or formal occasions. In the fashion domain, #104188 can convey a sense of confidence and sophistication, appropriate for business or formal events.