Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #104588, often referred to as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue that conveys a sense of depth, stability, and authority. It falls within the blue color family, known for its calming and trustworthy associations. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 6.27% red, 27.06% green, and 53.33% blue. The corresponding CMYK values are 88.24% cyan, 49.38% magenta, 0% yellow, and 46.67% black. This color is commonly used in corporate branding, government institutions, and educational settings to project an image of professionalism and reliability. Its subtle richness makes it a versatile choice for both digital and print applications, lending a touch of sophistication to any design. Congress Blue is often favored when the intention is to inspire confidence and trust.
The hex color #104588, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web design. Its relatively low lightness value means that it requires careful attention to contrast ratios when used with text or other interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. When using #104588 for text, ensure that the background color is sufficiently light to meet these contrast requirements. White (#FFFFFF) or very light grays are often good choices. If using #104588 as a background, opt for light-colored text to ensure readability. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be invaluable in verifying adequate contrast. Also, avoid using color alone to convey important information; always provide redundant cues such as text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Branding
Congress Blue evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. It is an excellent choice for websites and applications in the financial sector, where conveying reliability and security is paramount. Its calming effect also makes it suitable for healthcare platforms, instilling confidence in users. Furthermore, educational institutions and government agencies can use this color to project an image of authority and integrity. In user interfaces, use it for primary buttons or navigation elements to guide users effectively. However, use it sparingly in areas where you want to draw immediate attention, as its calming nature may not be as attention-grabbing as brighter colors.
Fashion and Interior Design
Congress Blue is a sophisticated and versatile color for fashion. It can be used in formal wear, such as suits and dresses, to create a polished and professional look. It also works well in casual wear, such as jeans and sweaters, adding a touch of refinement to everyday outfits. Accessorize with complementary colors like gold or silver for an elegant touch. In interior design, Congress Blue can be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere. Paint walls in this color to promote relaxation in bedrooms or living rooms. It also pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, adding warmth and texture to the space. Consider using it for accent pieces like throw pillows or curtains to add a pop of color to a neutral room.
UI/UX Design
In the world of User Interfaces (UI) and User Experience (UX) design, #104588 is a reliable choice. Its deep hue commands attention without being abrasive, making it perfect for primary action buttons, headers, and other key interactive elements. Consider using it to subtly highlight important navigation elements, drawing the user's eye to key functions. The color's inherently professional feel also lends itself well to data visualization within dashboards and reporting systems, instilling confidence in the presented information. While #104588 excels at highlighting key areas, consider using it strategically and sparingly to maintain a balanced visual hierarchy. Too much of this deep blue can overwhelm a design and potentially reduce overall engagement.