Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
The hex color #104B8B, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a dark shade of blue with a touch of cyan. It is composed of 6.3% red, 29.4% green, and 54.5% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to (16, 75, 139). Congress Blue is often associated with qualities such as stability, trustworthiness, and professionalism, making it a popular choice in various design contexts. Its relatively low saturation gives it a muted appearance, contributing to its calming effect. It’s a color that evokes a sense of authority and sophistication, often used in branding and corporate communications to project an image of reliability and competence. Its name suggests a connection to governmental or political institutions, further reinforcing its association with trust and formality.
The hex color #104B8B, also known as Congress Blue, presents certain accessibility considerations, particularly in web design. When using this color for text, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. Due to its relatively dark nature, it necessitates a light-colored background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This can be verified using online contrast checkers. Avoid pairing #104B8B with other dark colors, as this would render text difficult to read for users with visual impairments. In user interface design, consider providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with specific visual needs. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure adequate visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or icons, to make these elements accessible to colorblind users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against dark backgrounds, making it suitable for text and UI elements.
- #d3d3d3
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to provide a balanced contrast with Congress Blue text.
- #007bff
A vivid blue color that creates a more visible button or link
Applications
Web Design for Corporate Services
Congress Blue is a sophisticated and calming color, making it ideal for designing websites related to finance, technology, or corporate services. Its professional appearance can instill trust and confidence in visitors. It can be used for headers, navigation bars, and other key elements to create a cohesive and professional design. It is important to consider the overall color scheme and ensure that the blue works well with other colors to achieve the desired effect. For example, a complementary color like yellow or orange can be used to add contrast and visual interest.
Fashion and Apparel
Congress Blue can be incorporated into clothing for a classic and refined look. It works well for business attire, such as suits or blazers, and can also be used in casual wear, like sweaters or shirts. The color is versatile and pairs well with other neutrals like gray, white, and black. Accessorizing with complementary colors such as mustard yellow or burnt orange can create a stylish and balanced outfit. The depth of the blue can create a slimming effect, making it a popular choice for many.
Interior Design for Serene Spaces
In interior design, Congress Blue can create a serene and elegant atmosphere. It is well suited for living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. Pair the color with neutral furniture and accents, such as white or beige, to balance the space. Using metallic accents like gold or silver can add a touch of glamour. Plants can add contrast to the blue and breathe life into a living space. Consider adding artwork that complements the colors used in the interior to complete the look.