Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue
Congress Blue, represented by the hex code #104C8B, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trust, and professionalism. It is often associated with institutions, government, and corporate environments due to its serious and dependable nature. In the RGB color model, it consists of 6.27% red, 29.8% green, and 54.51% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is used in printing, it is composed of 88% cyan, 45% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45% black. This color is versatile and can be used in a variety of design applications, from web design to interior decorating, where a sense of authority and reliability is desired. Its depth and richness make it suitable for creating a sophisticated and elegant look. Congress Blue is a color that demands respect and exudes a sense of competence.
The hex color #104C8B, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, the contrast ratio may not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) requirements for Level AA compliance. This means that users with moderate visual impairments may find it difficult to read. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter background color or adjusting the text color to something brighter, such as a shade of white or yellow. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Also, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information; use text labels or icons to ensure all users can understand the content, regardless of their color vision abilities. When using this color for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues are provided to indicate state changes like hover or focus.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability and visual clarity.
- #003366
A darker, richer blue that offers a sophisticated look and can be used as an accent color or for backgrounds.
- #1e90ff
A slightly brighter blue hue, providing a vivid alternative that stands out on screens and printed materials.
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue (#104C8B) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its depth can add a sense of stability and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, education, or government sectors. Combining it with lighter shades of gray or off-white can create a balanced and visually appealing layout. This color can also be used for navigation menus or call-to-action buttons, but ensure sufficient contrast for readability and accessibility. The color works well as a background for textual content, provided the text is a light color. Finally, it may be applied as a hover effect for interactive objects.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative elements to add a touch of sophistication and calm. It pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, creating a balanced and harmonious space. Consider using it in bedrooms or living rooms to promote relaxation and tranquility. This color could be also used in combination with golden ornaments to improve overall room aesthetics. To make it vibrant, try matching Congress Blue with a yellow hue. Make sure there is plenty of light when using such a dark color for interior design.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue (#104C8B) can be used for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, to convey a sense of professionalism and elegance. It can also be incorporated into casual outfits as an accent color in accessories like scarves, ties, or handbags. Consider pairing it with lighter colors like white or light gray for a balanced look, or with bolder colors like red or yellow for a more striking contrast. Because it's a dark blue, Congress Blue is a suitable color for most accessories, such as bracelets, watches, or necklaces.